England batter Tammy Beaumont believes there is “no tougher challenge” than trying to defeat Australia in their own backyard ahead of the Women’s Ashes beginning this weekend. Australia’s all-conquering run ended in October with their failure to retain the T20 World Cup but they hold sway over England, who have not toppled their old rivals in a multi-format series since 2014.
The teams could not be separated in an exhilarating draw in England 18 months ago although Australia are a more formidable force at home, exemplified by a 38-year unbeaten stretch in bilateral ODI series. Beaumont insisted England are up for the fight – starting on Sunday with the first of three ODIs, followed by three T20s then a single four-day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground – even if she accepts facing Australia on their own patch is one of the most difficult engagements across all sports.
“I think that’s hitting the nail on the head,” Beaumont told the PA news agency. “There is no tougher challenge than coming to Australia and trying to get the Ashes back in our hands. “You can never put them down because they always come back stronger. They’re certainly the favourites going into this series. But we’re going to try our best to go toe-to-toe with them.
“It’s about focusing on us and not playing Australia and their aura. When you pose questions of the opposition, you’re always in with a better shout of winning. We’ve certainly got a lot of talented individuals that can take games away from anyone.
