Women's Cricket: Australia denied again

Australia 225-7 England 226-8

England's women added further gloss to their memorable run as they moved 4-0 ahead in their one-day series against Australia after a thrilling two-wicket victory at Sir Paul Getty's Ground at Wormsley yesterday.

The home side, who have become double world champions in the 20-over and 50-over game, needed seven to win off the final over and Laura Marsh and Holly Colvin kept their nerve to see them through with the winning run coming off the final delivery bowled by medium-pacer Rene Farrell.

Australia recovered from a horrible start to reach 225 for seven from their 50 overs. That figure looked a long way off when the tourists lost two wickets without scoring a run – Katherine Brunt striking early.

But Shelley Nitschke's well-made 71, coupled with 52 from Karen Rolton enabled Australia to set a total which almost proved too tough for England.

The home side got off to a solid start but it was captain Charlotte Edwards who, not for the first time, gave the innings momentum.

Her 65 and a 50 from Lydia Greenway in a partnership worth 113 turned the game in England's favour.