• Ash Gardner scores a brilliant 102 runs, leading Australia to a total of 308-8.
• Australia defeats England by 86 runs, securing a clean sweep in the Women’s Ashes ODI series.
• Gardner's sensational catch during the match is hailed as the 'catch of the century.'
• England must win all remaining T20s and the Test match to reclaim the Ashes.
• Australia's fielding and batting depth highlighted their dominance in Hobart.

In a stunning display of cricket prowess, Ash Gardner not only achieved her maiden one-day international century but also produced what many are calling "the catch of the century" during the final ODI in Hobart, leading Australia to an emphatic 86-run victory over England and a clean sweep in the series. With this win, Australia now holds a commanding 6-0 advantage in the points-based multi-format series of the Women's Ashes.

After a shaky start at 59-4, Gardner played a remarkable innings, scoring 102 runs off just 102 balls, which included one six and eight boundaries. Her innings was pivotal, allowing Australia to post a formidable score of 308-8. Beth Mooney provided solid support with a patient 50, while Tahlia McGrath added an explosive 55 runs, highlighting the depth in Australia's batting lineup. As England attempted to chase down the total, they could only manage 222 runs, losing their last six wickets for a mere 22 runs, emphasizing Australia's bowling and fielding superiority.

The match saw Gardner elevate her game beyond mere batting; her sensational catch in the 41st over snatched a six attempt from England's Sophie Ecclestone, clinching a moment of brilliance that left spectators and commentators in awe. Former England batter Ebony Rainford-Brent described Gardner's performance as "one of the best Ashes innings I've seen," underscoring the significance of her contributions. BBC Test Match Special commentator Henry Moeran characterized her catch as "a moment of Women's Ashes history," with others echoing that it was the definitive highlight of the match

England's captain, Heather Knight, acknowledged the team's improvements but recognized the gap that remains between them and Australia. "It's clear that we need to find a way to elevate our game if we hope to regain the Ashes," she noted. The English side is now under pressure to win all three remaining T20s and the subsequent Test match to have any chance of reclaiming the prestigious trophy, as a drawn series would mean retention by the holders.

As the series shifts to Sydney for the T20 matches starting January 20, the team's resilience will be tested further. While Australia enters this next stage with immense confidence bolstered by their recent performance, England, having shown signs of fight, will aim to harness that energy to turn their fortunes around.

To catch up on Gardner's spectacular display and the match insights, visit the coverage on BBC Sports.

The spotlight is now on the upcoming T20 matches, with fans eagerly anticipating if England can halt Australia's momentum and reclaim their place in women's cricket following more than a decade.