England’s head coach Jon Lewis is confident that England are in a ‘good space’ ahead of the 2025 Women’s Ashes in Australia.
Jon Lewis described England’s exit from the 2024 T20 World Cup as a “line-in-the-sand moment” but remains optimistic about his team’s prospects in the multi-format Ashes series, set to begin on January 12.
England showcased an impressive campaign in the 2024 World Cup, winning their first three matches. However, a loss to the West Indies in their final league game impacted their net run rate, allowing South Africa and the West Indies to advance to the knockout stages. Reflecting on the exit, Lewis described the team’s emotions as “frustrated” despite their overall success during the tournament.
“We’ve been incredibly successful in terms of wins and incredibly frustrated at the same time with the way that we exited the World Cup,” Lewis said.
Turning his focus to the Ashes, Lewis highlighted how the loss united the team and made them stronger. England bounced back with a commanding performance in the multi-format away series against South Africa, winning the ODI series, T20I series, and the one-off Test match.
The Women’s Ashes will feature three ODIs, followed by three T20Is, culminating in a historic day-night Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on January 30. Lewis noted that the Ashes serve as vital preparation for the upcoming 50-over World Cup in India and present a significant challenge against a formidable Australian side.
“It’s brought the team closer together. That defeat, in particular, was taken very hard, creating an emotional moment for the group in the dressing room. After a lot of reflection, we now feel like a more connected team. So, I’m excited about what 2025 brings. It’s two massive competitions—a 50-over World Cup and an Ashes series away. It’s a great challenge but also a fantastic opportunity,” Lewis said.
A notable highlight for England was the emergence of players who excelled during the one-off Test against South Africa which would potentially boost their confidence ahead of their day-night test against Australia at Melbourne.
Maia Bouchier, who debuted in the match, scored a stunning century, amassing 124 runs in the first innings. Lauren Bell was instrumental with the ball, claiming eight wickets and earning Player of the Match. Additionally, seasoned all-rounder Nat Sciver-Brunt smashed a record-breaking 96-ball ton—the fastest in women’s Test cricket—while skipper Heather Knight displayed her class with a resilient 90 in the second innings.
Looking ahead, Lewis acknowledged Australia’s formidable form. The defending Ashes champions recently whitewashed India 3-0 in an ODI series and secured a 2-0 victory against New Zealand in their subsequent ODI series.
“They’re a really dangerous side at the moment. They’re a team with a point to prove. While they haven’t won as consistently as they have in the past, their standards remain incredibly high. This makes them a formidable opponent,” Lewis concluded.
Loves all things female cricket
