England, Australia settle for thrilling draw in women’s Ashes Test

Canberra: In a fantastic advertisement for women’s Test cricket, England hung on for a dramatic draw as their Ashes contest against Australia came to a thrilling finish on the last session of the fourth and final day here.

The visiting England finished at 245 for nine after a sporting declaration from Australia captain Meg Lanning set the tourists a target of 257 runs from 48 overs at the Manuka Oval.

England looked on course to pull off the biggest fourth-innings chase in the history of women’s Test cricket before escaping with a draw after a batting collapse.

Captained by the inspirational Heather Knight, England needed 43 runs in the last 48 balls with seven wickets in hands, but ended up drawing the match with just a wicket left.

The Australian bowlers made a terrific comeback to put their team on the verge of victory after struggling against the English top-order.