Women's Ashes Test ends in a draw

Australia and England have played out a thrilling draw in the Women's Ashes Test match in Canberra.

Skipper Meg Lanning set the visitors a target of 257 to win from 48 overs and they fell just 12-runs short finishing at 9-245.

Tailenders Kate Cross and Sophie Ecclestone then had to fend out the final 13 balls, as Australia toyed between leaving fielders on the boundary to save the game and attacking for a win.

England came out of the blocks early with a positive mind frame knowing a victory would give them a huge upper hand in attempting to reclaim the Ashes.

The target with 10-overs to go was just 45-runs for victory but the key wicket of Nat Sciver (58 from 62) swung the match dramatically, as England lost 6-26.

Annabel Sutherland finished with three wickets and debutant Alana King claimed two to bring the Aussies within an inch of victory and retaining the urn.

For all of England's effort, they must now win all three of the upcoming ODIs to avoid Australia taking home the urn for a fourth straight series.

IMAGE: AAP/ Getty