Australian superstar Ellyse Perry fell agonisingly short of her third Test century, being caught out for 99 in the women’s Ashes.
Perry was one run away from reaching triple figures when she cut a Lauren Filer delivery to backward point and was caught by Sophie Ecclestone.
Former Aussie vice-captain Rachael Haynes called the wicket “heartbreaking” in commentary for Nine.
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Perry previously scored a double century against England in Sydney.
The 32-year-old has been one of the best all-round players in women’s cricket for a decade, averaging 75.20 in Test cricket and bowling at an average of 19.97.
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Her knock lifted the Aussies to finish day one at 7-328 at Trent Bridge.
It was a cheery start to the day for Australia as young gun Phoebe Litchfield was handed her baggy green, and then walked to the crease to open alongside veteran Beth Mooney.
Litchfield looked solid until opting to leave a Kate Cross delivery which swung in and hit her on the front pad, the umpire sending her packing despite replays suggesting the ball was missing the stumps.
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Healy strolled to the crease at first drop and steadied the ship. She put on 119 runs with Tahlia McGrath as the hosts battled to break the partnership.
When Perry was on 82 a downpour of rain forced players off the ground, and shortly after play resumed England managed to snare three quick wickets to fight back.
English spinner Sophie Ecclestone took three wickets while Filer claimed two.
Filer thought she had Perry out for 10 with her first ever Test delivery, but the Aussie reviewed the umpire’s lbw decision and replays showed she had hit it with her bat first.
Day two begins from 8pm Friday (AEST) and Australians can catch all the action on Nine and 9Now.
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