England women moved a step closer to regaining the Ashes by beating Australia by 15 runs in the first Twenty20 match at Chelmsford on Tuesday evening.
The hosts batted first in Essex and were guided to a total 146-4 by Sarah Taylor, who struck a career-best 77 from just 58 balls.
Dani Wyatt added 28 in a partnership of 88 with Taylor as England set the tourists a difficult target to chase.
England took control as Australia lost three early wickets in reply before Jenny Gunn came into the attack to claim two victims.
Australia looked to be heading to a comprehensive defeat but a counter-attack from Ellyse Perry (30*) and Rachel Haynes (25*) helped the visitors to reach 131-5 from their 20 overs.
The victory for England means they take an 8-4 lead in the series and that a win in either of the final two T20 matches will secure an Ashes triumph.
Callum Mulvihill
