Australian superstar Ellyse Perry fell agonizingly short of her third Test century, sitting out for 99 in the women’s Ashes.
Perry was one run away from hitting triple figures when she sliced through a Lauren Filer delivery backwards and was caught by Sophie Ecclestone.
Former Australian vice-captain Rachael Haynes called the wicket “heartbreaking” in a commentary for Nine.
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“It’s like any other time to go out,” Perry said afterward.
“It’s kind of annoying, but gosh, the game definitely goes on. And life goes on.”
Perry previously scored a double century against England in Sydney.
The 32-year-old has been one of the best players in women’s cricket for a decade, averaging 75.20 in Test cricket and bowling an average of 19.97.
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His striking lifted the Australians to finish the first day at 7-328 at Trent Bridge.
It was a joyous start for Australia as youngster Phoebe Litchfield was handed her baggy green then walked into the crease to open alongside veteran Beth Mooney.
Litchfield looked solid until she opted to leave a Kate Cross delivery that swung and hit her on the front pad, the umpire sent her packing despite replays suggesting the ball wasn’t in the stumps.
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Healy walked to the crease on the first drop and steadied the ship. He made 119 runs with Tahlia McGrath as the hosts battled to break the partnership.
When Perry was at 82, a downpour forced the players up off the ground, and shortly after play resumed England managed to catch three quick wickets to counter-attack.
English spinner Sophie Ecclestone took three wickets while Filer claimed two.
Filer thought she had outperformed Perry for 10 with her first Test pitch, but the Aussie reviewed the umpire’s ruling on bodyweight and replays showed she had struck first with her bat.
Day two kicks off on Friday at 8pm (AEST) and Aussies can catch all the action on Nine and 9Now.
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