When Australia say they are not satisfied, despite winning by four wickets with 67 balls to spare, beware.
In the opening match of the multi-format Women's Ashes tournament in Sydney, neither team was at their best, which is perhaps understandable given the lack of warm-up time available for this series.
England were bowled out for 204 in the first one-day international, on a pitch where the average first-innings winning score is 277, but then Australia lost six wickets in getting there.
But England must be wary that an Australia-dominated side will not be satisfied with just 'crossing the line'.
They are a juggernaut for a team that enjoys bulldozing their way to victory.
“I think we could have been more effective with the bat,” said Australian captain Alyssa Healy, who turned 70.
“It was the kind of wicket you never feel ‘so we chased that down, but we could have put our feet down and tried to chase that down quicker.”
Interestingly, Healy's immediate response was to suggest ways in which her team could improve, despite the win, while England captain Heather Knight said she was pleased with the performance.
“We felt like we were in the game, very close,” Knight said.
“We won't change much, I don't think we're too far away. Another 20 rounds and we're in the game.”
Of course, Knight won't be down after one defeat, and her job is to keep spirits high on a tour where the schedule is unforgiving: the teams travel to Melbourne tomorrow with the second ODI taking place the following day.
There are three ODIs in total, followed by three T20 matches – with two points for the winners of each limited-overs contest. Then comes one test offering four points to the winner and two points each in a draw.
England, who were 2-0 down after the opener, should by no means be written off after one defeat – remember they came from 6-0 down in 2023 to level a thrilling series.
But even though Australia were not at their best, it was a statement – showing they can win comfortably even on a rare off day. England have to be better at seizing the initiative if given the slightest opportunity.
