England captain Charlotte Edwards scored a maiden Ashes Test century as she helped her side recover to end day one in Sydney on 181-8.
Edwards had opted to bat after winning the toss and the decision appeared to backfire as England’s batting order, which was 28-3, collapsed.
But a 65-run stand between Edwards, who remains unbeaten on 103, and Jenny Gunn (33) helped the tourists recover.
England’s skipper had batted for more than five hours at stumps.
“I’ve always wanted to score a Test hundred against Australia so this is definitely one of my career highlights so far,” said Edwards.
606: DEBATE
Can England retain the Ashes?
“We did lose wickets in the middle today, but the lower order helped me along and contributed some important runs.
“I’m looking forward to getting out there again tomorrow and hope we can push past 200.”
