Australia’s swashbuckling all-rounder Ellyse Perry was all set to bring up her third Test century and start Day 1 of Women’s Ashes 2023 in style. Perry then made the mistake of going for a rash shot and got caught at gully by Nat-Sciver Brunt. As on-debut Lauren Filer celebrated the prized wicket with her teammates, Perry entered history books as she became the fourth batter in history of women’s Test cricket to get out for 99.
Former England opener Betty Snowball was the first to achieve the feat. In July 1937, Snowball got run out as she missed her century. The second instance was more than 46 years later. Former Australia captain Jill Kennare got out caught and bowled to India's Shubhangi Kulkarni in 1984 at Wankhede Stadium. Several decades later in 2015, Australia's Jess Jonassen got out lbw to Katherine Brunt for 99 in 2015.
Earlier, Perry was given lbw on 10 to on-debut Lauren Filer’s first delivery in international cricket but the Australia linchpin was reprieved on review as replays showed the ball caught an inside edge before thudding into the pads.
Perry, who made 116 and 76 not out in the 2019 Test between the sides at Taunton, put on 119 with Tahlia McGrath in a largely frustrating afternoon session at Trent Bridge for the hosts.
The 32-year-old showed her full range either side of the lunch interval with decisive pulls, late cuts and fluent drives. She was ably supported by McGrath as the pair kept Australia on the front foot, with England unable to create any chances or keep the scoring under wraps. They shared a 119-run stand for the third wicket.
Left-arm spinner castled McGrath for a Test-best 61 after finding just enough turn off the pitch to beat the bat. Ecclestone also took the wickets of Jess Jonassen and skipper Alyssa Healy.
Perry faced 153 deliveries to score 99 runs including 15 fours. When she got out, Australia's score was 238/6.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
Virender Sehwag in contention to become Team India's next chief selector BUT there's a catch
'The seed was germinated through the passing of Phillip Hughes': Ex-Australian cricketer on origin of 'Bazball'
