Australia unleashed their brand of T20 cricket wizardry on a packed Cardiff crowd, chasing down England's 157-run total with room to spare in the warm-up match. And what a show it was, with Ellyse Perry conjuring up a match-winning half-century that left the hosts grasping at thin air!
England, putting their runs on the board first, couldn't quite deliver the knockout blow, mustering 157 for 6 from their allocated overs. While Nat Sciver-Brunt's return to captaincy was eagerly anticipated, her individual contribution proved a tad disappointing.
Australia, though, revelled in their newfound freedom, racing towards victory with Ellyse Perry's whirlwind innings stealing the show. She scored an unbeaten 64 runs, leaving England's bowlers scrambling to find a chink in her armour – and when she eventually fell to Dani Gibson's acrobatic catch at deep midwicket, Australia needed only two runs for the win.
This exhibition match has given both teams a valuable reality check as they fine-tune their preparations for T20 World Cup glory. For Australia, it was a confidence-boosting display of batting prowess and an ability to knock over stiff targets – while England now know exactly where they need to tighten up their game plan.
The result cements Australia's status as one of the tournament favourites, with England knowing that there's still work to be done if they're to challenge for the top prize.