Australia thrash England to win record seventh Women's T20 World Cup
Beth Mooney's 64 off 49 balls and a century stand with Phoebe Litchfield powered Australia to a seven-wicket victory over England in the final at a sold-out Lord's.
Australia's chase seals dominant win
Australia chased down England's 150 with 17 balls to spare, led by Beth Mooney's 64 from 49 balls. Mooney and Phoebe Litchfield (48 off 35) put on a century partnership for the second wicket. Georgia Voll set the tone by hitting the first ball for four. Mooney was named player of the match and player of the tournament.
That's the only way in T20 cricket - throw the first punch. We just tried to get the run rate down as fast as possible.
I just tried to make sure we got ahead of the game as early as possible. This is an amazing icing on the cake for what has been a pretty amazing tournament for the group.
England's innings falters early
England posted 150 for 4, built on an unbroken 80-run stand between captain Nat Sciver-Brunt (58 not out) and Freya Kemp (44 not out). But a sluggish start left them 39 for 2 in the powerplay. Amy Jones fell for 6, Danni Wyatt-Hodge for 8, and Alice Capsey was bowled reverse-sweeping for 23. Heather Knight was trapped lbw for 2. Kim Garth's miserly 1 for 20 stifled the middle order.
I tried to do everything I could... I'm really proud.
Molineux's redemption arc
Sophie Molineux, appointed captain in January after Alyssa Healy's retirement, faced doubts after a back injury interrupted her start. She took 1 for 32 and led Australia to a seventh title. Molineux said she had to "keep believing" and credited the support of her family, who watched at Lord's.
I suppose there was a few doubts internally and a few doubts externally. But I think what maybe I've learnt over my journey so far is that you just have to keep believing.
England's future under Edwards
Coach Charlotte Edwards praised her side's progress since the 16-0 Ashes defeat 18 months ago but hinted at a squad review. Veterans Heather Knight and Danni Wyatt-Hodge, both 35, may face scrutiny. Edwards said she was "really proud" but would "have a look at the team" at the end of the summer.
We need to have a look at the team. We obviously stuck with a lot of our older players for this tournament and they have rewarded us well.
