Kent skipper Charlotte Edwards led by example as England’s women retained the Ashes in Australia.

Edwards, 34, cracked an unbeaten 92 from 59 balls - a record t20 score by an English woman - to inspire a comprehensive nine-wicket win with 13 balls to spare and give the tourists an unassailable lead in the seven-match, three-format series.

England won the only Test in Perth, which earned them six points, and added two more points by winning the opening ODI of the series.

Australia needed to win every remaining clash to claim back the urn, and did enjoy success in the second and third ODIs, however England’s win in the first of three t20s on Wednesday ensured overall victory.

Edwards and Sarah Taylor (50) added an unbroken 114 from 80 balls to ensure just the third successful run-chase of more than 150 in women’s t20 cricket.

Edwards finished with 13 fours and a six, and hit the winning runs with a drive over mid-on off Erin Osborne.