The Blaze become the third team to hold the trophy; previously won by Southern Vipers (2022 & 2023) & South East Stars (2021). Commentators pointed out that their fellow finalists included familiar faces who’d previously won the trophy. After Stars openers plundered 22 runs from the first over, that became the  ‘most expensive’ over in the competition’s short history. Their in-form batters Sophia Dunkley and Paige Schofield were both snapped-up by Blaze & Scotland’s keeper Sarah Bryce, who made carbon-copy stumpings. Match highlight when Blaze replied, was a decisive partnership of 79 runs between Kathryn & Sarah Bryce, both sisters posting match-winning ‘fifties.’ POTM, Kathryn Bryce (pictured) [62 runs (from 45 balls)] made top-score, also topping the batting leader-board with 477 runs as player-of-the-series ‘POTS’ with five ‘fifties.’ Having recently replaced Nadine de Klerk as Blaze’s International player, Heather Graham (Australia Big bash) scored the winning ‘four.’ Receiving POTS, Kathryn Bryce said that everyone had ‘stood-up’ (played their part); notably a ‘key’ success factor for Blaze. Finals-day commentators were Charles Dagnall (Broadcaster & former player), Michael McCann (Sports journalist), Jo Gardner (Sunrisers), Sophie Luff (Western Storm) & Fi Morris (Lancashire Thunder.) Weather was sunny 17C.

*Stars’ innings skipper Bryony Smith, with Tash Farrant, Ryana MacDonald-Gay & Paige Scholfield (England ‘A’); Sophia Dunkley & Alice-Davidson-Richards (England), Tilly Corteen-Coleman (England u-19s); Georgia Redmayne (Australia Big bash);*Also with Phoebe Franklin, Danielle ‘Dani’ Gregory & Kalea Moore; *Without Alice Capsey, Kira Chathli, Aylish Cranstone, Chloe Hill or Alexa Stonehouse  [*Sarah Bryce keeping wicket for Blaze]; *As mentioned above, Stars openers Bryony Smith and Sophia Dunkley plundered 22 runs from Grace Ballinger’s first over; *Next over, skipper Bryony Smith went ‘leg-before’ to her opposite number, skipper Kirstie Gordon; *During the sixth over Phoebe Franklin was bowled by Heather Graham; *After six overs ‘power-play,’ 46/2; *Next over Sophia Dunkley was stumped by Sarah Bryce from Josie Groves; *Two overs later, Paige Scholfield went for a ‘carbon-copy’ dismissal; *At which point commentators felt that Stars were ‘in a pickle’ approaching mid-way. *After 10 overs: 73/4; *Emma Jones who ‘played a cameo’ was bowled ‘leg-stump’ by Heather Graham; *During the 15th over, Alice-Davidson-Richards was caught by Marie Kelly from Josie Groves; *Three wickets fell during each of the last three overs; *Georgia Redmayne was caught ‘easily’ at ‘mid-off’ by Kirstie Gordon from Kathryn Bryce; *Tash Farrant was caught with an ‘excellent’ catch taken by Kathryn Bryce from Kirstie Gordon’s ‘full-toss’ ; *Finally, Dani Gregory was bowled, losing her leg-stump bail to Heather Graham; *Stars’ batting: Georgia Redmayne 25(25), Alice-Davidson-Richards 21(12), Emma Jones 18(15), Bryony Smith 17(8), Sophia Dunkley 16(14), Phoebe Franklin 10(16); *Blaze bowling: Heather Graham 3/16, Josie Groves 3/33, Kirstie Gordon 2/21, Kathryn Bryce 1/13 ;

Blaze’s innings *Skipper Kirstie Gordon (England A) *With Tammy Beaumont (England); *Lucy Higham (England A) *Josie Groves (England u-19s) *Heather Graham (Australia Big bash) *Also with Kathryn & Sarah Bryce (Scotland) *Without Sarah Glenn (England), Michaela Kirk (Rep South Africa) – seen spectating; or Georgie Boyce [*Georgia Redmayne keeping wicket for Stars]; *During the second over, Tammy Beaumont was ‘run-out’ by Tash Farrant; *Marie Kelly was caught by Paige Scholfield from Bryony Smith’s second ball; *After 6 overs power-play 49/2 (vs 46/2); *By mid-way (10 overs) 84/2 (vs 73/4); *As mentioned above, match-winning partnership between Kathryn & Sarah Bryce posted 79 runs; Kathryn Bryce was bowled by Dani Gregory; Sarah Bryce & Heather Graham were ‘not out;’ Heather Graham struck the winning ‘four’ over ‘mid-off,’ with 8 balls remaining; *Blaze’s batting Kathryn Bryce 62(45) misreported by non-ECB sources as from 44 balls, Sarah Bryce 52*not out(46); *Stars’ bowling: Dani Gregory 1/26 Bryony Smith 1/29;

*Match result: The Blaze 144/3 (@7.7 runs-per-over from 18.4/20 overs; target 142 from 20 ov.) beat South East Stars (@7.0 runs-per-over from 20/20 ov.) 141/9 by seven wickets with 8 balls remaining

*Scorecard courtesy of ECB @url: https://www.ecb.co.uk/charlotte-edwards-cup/match-centre/104413#scorecard AppleMac users may need to scroll down on left margin to select a match

*Video highlights (x49) courtesy of ECB, powered by NV Play @url https://live.nvplay.com/ecb/#v64290e19-54eb-4ce7-b333-980e24db1dc6

*Full match free-to-air courtesy of ECB (via NV Play) on YouTube<03h18m21s> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m8huTR1mGKE&t=2s

*Complete final and semi-finals and post-match interviews courtesy of ECB (via NV Play) on YouTube<11h03m37s> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-zm-Cg-PHY&t=4215s

Footnote: ECB scorecard data should be amended as Blaze innings is reported under Stars with each other’s totals, and vice-versa (at time of writing)

Bristol Bears

15 Meryl Smith 14 Reneeka Bonner 13 Phoebe Murray 12 Holly Aitchison 11 Courtney Keight 10 Amber Reed (co-captain) 9 Keiira Bevan 1 Hannah Botterman 2 Lark Atkin-Davies 3 Sarah bern 4 Delaney Burns 5 Abbie Ward (co-captain) 6 Alisha Joyce-Butchers 7 Evie Gallagher 8 Rownita marston-Mulhearn
16 Jess Sprague 17 Simi Pam 18 Elliann Clarke 19 Hollie Cunningham 20 Gabriella Nigrelli 21 Lucy Burgess 22 Ella Lovibond 23 Jenny Hesketh

Gloucester-Hartpury

15 Emma Sing 14 Mia Venner 13 Hannah Jones 12 Tatyana Heard 11 Pip Hendy 10 Lleucu George 9 Mo Hunt (co-captain) 1 Mackenzie Carson 2 Neve Jones 3 Maud Muir 4 Sarah Beckett 5 Sam Monaghan 6 Georgia Brock 7 Beth Lewis 8 Zoe Aldcroft (co-captain)
16 Amy Dale 17 El Perry 18 Sicilia Tuipulotu 19 Kate Williams 20 Steph Else 21 Bianca Blackburn 22 Millie Hyett 23 Rachel Lund

Officials:

Referee: Sara Cox
ARs: Harry Walbaum and Holly Wood
TMO: Nikki O’Donnell

For once the authorities have managed to appoint three women and only one man to take charge; a rare exception to the pattern of the season.

Bears’ Outlook

This is the Bears’ chance to prove themselves one of the nation’s topmost clubs, their first PWR final.

The big news is the return of Sarah Bern. That’s excellent for everyone, except her opponents.

Very slowly, the established order is being overturned. Saracens are no longer in control; Quins are languishing in seventh place out of nine; even Lightning aren’t quite the force they were.

Now the Bristolians have the task of dethroning the new queens of all they survey, Glos-Pury.

They have the equipment to do so.

Up front Botterman has helped to form a powerful front row, even without the aid of Sarah Bern, now restored.

Holly Aitchison has helped create the positions and the openings for the wide players. Even so, it is Bristol’s defence, not their attack that stands out in the stats. The return of Abbie Ward has made a huge impact for them on many fronts.

Overcoming the odds at the StoneX may prove to have been a decisive moment for the Bears.

G-H’s Outlook

G-H’s great skill is in the smoothness of their combinations, the closest any English club gets to the fluency of the Red Roses. That might well be because so many of the latter play for the club. The ongoing mystery is why another large section of their squad, the Welsh, perform so much better at club level than for their nation. They have a Welsh coach in charge.

It’s an irony that Holly Aitchison left Saracens in order to play 10 regularly. She plays 12 again in the final.

Until their one downfall against Sarries at the close of the regular season, they always found a way of turning a close game into a win. That loss may have been just the reminder they needed to avoid an unwelcome repeat.

One player who will feel that all eyes are on her is Emma Sing. This outstanding full-back suffers from the problem facing several players. For all the quality of her performances, competition for the 15 shirt is so strong that she no longer has a contract. These days that makes a huge difference, not merely to her own self-esteem, but to her financial well-being – yet another large question-mark against the planned increase in professionalisation.

Alex Matthews is still missing, but G-H have reserve stocks to burn.

Zoe Aldcroft may be the only player on the park for whom the final will not be the biggest moment of the week.

The Biggest Day

Each year we can trumpet the coming final as the greatest clash yet at club level. 2024 is no exception. It’s a relief that neither side has the advantage of a home fixture. There is the argument that the side coming top of the league should have the privilege of playing at home. My position is two-faced. I contend that the trophy should go to the club that comes top of the league. If the year consisted of 465 days instead of 365, there would be room for a cup tournament more meaningful than the current Allianz Cup. But since fashion, publicity and funding depend on mounting knock-out stages as well, a neutral ground is the answer.

Incidentally, the very same day, cricket will be undertaking a parallel occasion; four teams will be in contention at Derby. The clash of a traditionally winter game with a summer one is a sign of the times.

Prediction

The only certainty is that the game will be a cracker. The Bears see themselves as the humble underdogs. Some run-ins to finals become a fight for the right to be called the underdogs. Here Bears are justified: they finished only third in the table, a whopping 18 points behind Saturday’s opposition.

It’s said that staying top is infinitely harder than reaching the top, but Glos-Pury, with their overwhelming strength fore and aft, must be the favourites.

A 3-0 win is unlikely.

Coverage:

BBC Sport website, BBC iPlayer plus sound commentary on BBC Radio Gloucestershire and BBC Radio Bristol (via FM, digital, BBC Sounds and online).

Or you could listen to the loudest comments from delighted or furious spectators on site.

Afterthought

Once more Sandy Park is the chosen location for the Big Game. It lies no less than five miles from the two Exeter railway stations. That’s a long walk, Even shuttle buses will take their time, and G-H fans, making use of contracted coaches for the return journey, aren’t expected back in Gloucestershire till mid-evening.

Just imagine Sale Sharks and DMP Sharks disputing the final in deepest Devon.

Match results by venue from remaining matches played between September 5th – 24th;

*Arundel, at the Castle Cricket Ground (Arundel Castle, Sussex)

• September 9: Vipers 237/10 beat Thunder 173/10, by 64 runs @URL: http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2023/09/13/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy-2023-match-46-vipers-vs-thunder/

*Beckenham, at The County Ground (Kent CCC)

• September 10: Stars 278/10 beat Blaze 171/10, by 107 runs @URL: http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2023/09/12/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy-2023-match-45-stars-vs-the-blaze/
• September 21: Play-off/Eliminator(2nd vs 3rd): Blaze 52/2 (target 52 from 10 overs) beat Stars (148/10 from 43.5 overs), by eight wickets (DLS method) @URL: http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2023/09/22/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy-2023-match-57-play-off/

*Birmingham (West) at Edgbaston Stadium

• September 5: Blaze 193/7 (target 190) beat Sparks 189/10, by three wickets @URL: http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2023/09/08/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy-match-42-sparks-vs-blaze/
• September 16: Stars 283/7 beat Sparks 131/10, by 152 runs @URL: http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2023/09/20/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy-2023-match-53-sparks-vs-stars/

*Chelmsford, at The Cloud County Ground (Essex)

• September 10: Sunrisers 228/6 beat Sparks 227/8, by four wickets @URL: http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2023/09/13/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy-2023-match-47-sunrisers-vs-sparks/

*Chester-le-Street, The Seat Unique Riverside (Co. Durham)

• September 16: Sunrisers 126/4 (17.3 overs; target 126 from 18 overs) beat Diamonds 114/6 (18 overs), by six wickets (DLS method) @URL:http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2023/09/20/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy-match-56-diamonds-vs-sunrisers/

*Gosforth, at Roseworth Terrace (South Northumberland CC)

• September 5: Vipers 261/8 beat Diamonds 258/5, by 3 runs @URL: http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2023/09/11/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy-2023-match-44-diamonds-vs-vipers/

*Guildford, at Woodbridge Road (Surrey)

• September 5: Thunder 147/4 beat Stars 145/10, by six wickets @URL: http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2023/09/06/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy-2023-match-41-stars-vs-thunder/

*Loughborough, Haslegrave Ground (Rutland Way)

• September 13: Sunrisers 295/5 beat Blaze 265/10, by 30 runs @URL: http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2023/09/14/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy-match-51-blaze-vs-sunrisers/
• September 16: Vipers 288/10 beat Blaze 162/10, by 126 runs @URL: http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2023/09/18/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy-2023-match-55-blaze-vs-vipers/

*Manchester, at Emirates Old Trafford

• September 16: Thunder 254/5 beat Storm 250/7, by five wickets @URL: http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2023/09/19/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy-2023-match-54-storm-vs-thunder

*Northampton, at The County Ground (Wantage Road)

• September 24: Trophy final: Vipers 203/5 (40.2 overs) beat Blaze 200/8 (48 overs), by five wickets @URL: http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2023/09/25/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy-2023-match-58-final-vipers-vs-blaze/

*Radlett Cricket Club at Cobden Hill (Herts)

• September 5: Sunrisers 144/6 (target 144) beat Storm 143/10, by four wickets @URL: http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2023/09/07/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy-match-43-sunrisers-vs-storm/

*Sale Cricket Club at Rookwood (Lancs)

• September 13: Diamonds 196/10 beat Thunder 148/10, by 48 runs @URL: http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2023/09/17/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy-2023-match-50-thunder-vs-diamonds/

*Southampton (East) at the Ageas Bowl

• September 13: match 49 – Vipers 254/10 beat Stars 196/1, by 58 runs @URL: http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2023/09/15/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy-2023-match-49-vipers-vs-stars/

*Taunton, at The Cooper Associates County Ground (Somerset)

• September 10: Diamonds 281/3 (43 overs) beat Storm 250/7 (43 overs), by 31 runs @URL: http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2023/09/11/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy-2023-match-48-storm-vs-diamonds/
• September 13: Sparks 242/3 beat Storm 241/8, by seven wickets @URL: http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2023/09/16/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy-2023-match-52-storm-vs-sparks/

Footnotes

*58 matches. *First five rounds played between 22nd April-2nd May; *Second five rounds played between 2nd-22nd July; *Four rounds played between 2nd – 16th September; Finals 21st & 24th September.

*Southern Vipers are now the defending champions (2023); 3rd trophy win (Vipers also won trophies in 2020 & 2021); Previously, Northern Diamonds won (2022);

*Trophy named in honour of The Baroness Heyhoe Flint OBE (1939-2017) who skippered  England’s Women between 1966 and 1978.

Tags: cricket, Rachael Heyhoe Flint trophy 2023

‘Vipers’ won their third RHFT crown (2020, 2021 & 2023); becoming the first team to become ‘double champions:’ holding both the 20 overs and 50 overs titles during the same season. Also, ‘Vipers’ bagged their fifth trophy in four seasons. Before the match, head coaches Charlotte Edwards (‘Vipers’) and Chris Guest (‘The Blaze’) were optimistic to win the ‘silverware,’ but neither coach was forthcoming about ‘last-minute-advice.’ Setting-the-scene, commentators mentioned that ‘Blaze’ were the ‘dominant team,’ starting the seasons with a string of back-to-back wins. South Africa’s Nadine deKlerk was said to have been a major contributor with bat-and-ball. On the day, ‘Blaze’s’ Tammy Beaumont made top-score [76 runs (from 104 balls)] from an ‘under-cooked’ total of 200. ‘Vipers’ replied with two batters scoring ‘fifty’ [Georgia Elwiss (50) & Emily Windsor (57*not out).] Commentators curse struck when Georgia Elwiss was said to “have scored back-to-back ‘fifties’ against ‘Blaze’;”and was promptly out, next ball. Two 90-run match-winning partnerships (the second between Emily Windsor and England’s Freya Kemp adding 94 runs) took Vipers to victory. Commentators for ECB TV were Michael McCann (Sports journalist) with Jamie Reid (unannounced, but from BBC Solent radio), with guests Charlotte Taylor (‘Vipers’), Fran Wilson (Ex-England & ‘Storm’) and Jo Gardner (‘Sunrisers.’) Also via BBC Sound [5 Live Sports-Xtra radio], with Kevan ’Kev’ James (BBC Solent radio), Melinda ‘Mel’ Farrell (former Australia women), Rita Green (Sports Journalist) & Jemma Green (Hursley Park women): the ‘Greens’ said to be ‘unrelated.’ Video highlights courtesy of ECB (NV Play) & Southern Vipers (please see below.)  Played in ‘windy’ weather, with floodlights switched-on from the start. Floodlights were later switched-off as weather improved toward the close. Toss was delayed at 10h00; 10:30h; taken at 11h20: when it was decided that the match was reduced to 48-overs per innings.

Blaze’s Innings Skipper Kirstie Gordon [Rhianna Southby keeping wicket for ‘Vipers’] *With Tammy Beaumont (‘replacing Ella Claridge’) & Kathryn & Sarah Bryce (Scotland) & Sophie Munro. *Also with International player Lizelle Lee but without Nadine deKlerk (Republic of South Africa); *Without Natalie Sciver-Brunt, Sarah Glenn, Teresa Graves or Michaela Kirk. *Lizelle Lee 3(5) went ‘leg-before’ to Linsey Smith; *Mis-timing straight to ‘extra cover,’ five balls later, Marie Kelly 0(1) was caught by Charlie Dean, from Linsey Smith for a ‘golden duck;’ *During the 12th over, Sarah Bryce 15(35) played-on from a ‘bottom-edge,’ from Charlie Dean; said to be ‘a big loss;’ *Before mid-way, Georgie Boyce 12(16) went  ‘leg-before’ to Georgia Adams; *By mid-way when drinks were taken, ‘Blaze’ were 96/4; *After mid-way, Kathryn Bryce 12(23) snicked an ‘outside edge’ to keeper Rhianna Southby, from Mary Taylor (1/39); *Said to have played for Blaze for this season only at 50 overs, Tammy Beaumont 76(104) was caught at ‘mid-off,’ by Georgia Adams, from Charlie Dean; *Lucy Higham 2(8) was short-lived, bowled by Linsey Smith; *Reportedly ’holding things together,’ Sophie Munro 33(66) went ‘leg-before’ to Georgia Adams; *Georgia Adams (2/43); separately Georgia Adams’ reportedly chalking-up 50 career wickets bagged with her ‘off-breaks’ at 50 overs (46.1-48.8mph.) *Hitting a defiant ‘six’ from ‘Blaze’s’ penultimate ball, followed by 2 to bring-up 200, Kirstie Gordon was 21*not out (from 26 balls); Josie Groves was 4*not out (from 5 balls.) Best ‘Blaze’ batter was Tammy Beaumont 76(104); Best ‘Vipers’’ bowler was Linsey Smith who took 3/27; (bowling speed 45.1-46.1 mph.)

Vipers’ innings *Skipper Georgia Adams [*Sarah Bryce keeping wicket for Blaze] *’Unchanged’ with Maia Bouchier, Charlie Dean, Mary Taylor, Ava Lee & Freya Kemp ‘batting, but not bowling.’ *Without international player Nicole Faltum (Australia); or England’s Danni Wyatt & Lauren Bell. *Ella McCaughan 0(8) was caught by Kirstie Gordon from Kathryn Bryce for an eighth-ball ‘duck’; *Hit on her ‘back-leg,’ Maia Bouchier went ‘leg-before’ to Kathryn Bryce (2/48) (bowling speed 56.4-57.1 mph);*Skipper Georgia Adams partnered by Georgia Elwiss added 96 runs. *Mini-collapse when three wickets tumbled and ‘100/2 became 109/5.’ *Firstly, Georgia Elwiss 50(69) snicked-an-edge to keeper Sarah Bryce from Josie Groves; the very next ball after scoring ‘back-to-back fifties’ against the same opponents. *Three balls later, Georgia Adams 39(52), was bowled by Josie Groves (3/39); *Josie Groves said to have ‘removed’ both Georgias ‘in the space of 4 balls.’ *Ten balls later (the interval misreported elsewhere), Charlie Dean 7(7) was short-lived, when bowled by Josie Groves (3/39.) *Drinks were taken just before mid-way (after 23.3 overs.) *Second match-winning partnership worth 94 runs followed, between Emily Windsor 57*not out (53), and Freya Kemp who was 32*not out (35); *Best ‘Vipers’’ batter was Emily Windsor 57*not out (53) *Best ‘Blaze’ bowler was Josie Groves who took 3/39 (bowling speed 42.2-47.1 mph.)

Match summary: ‘Vipers’ won their third 50-overs crown, also becoming the first women’s team to become ‘double champions’ during the same season. Commentators lauded the quality of play, when reporting women’s cricket data that 37,000 balls had been bowled this season (up from 25,000 for ’22; & 14,000 for ’21.) During ‘Blaze’s’ ‘Power-play,’ Lizelle Lee, Marie Kelly & Sarah Bryce all departed for low-scores. Tammy Beaumont made top-score as innings anchor, staging recovery with Sophie Munro who scored a season’s-best 33. ‘Blaze’s’ total was said to be ‘undercooked,’ but defendable. Commentators described two ‘high pressure situations’ when two early Vipers wickets fell to Scots skipper Kathryn Bryce. A similar situation occurred when three consecutive ‘Vipers’ wickets fell to Josie Groves, said to be playing her ‘dream match,’ coming locally from Northampton. As mentioned above, two 90-run batting partnerships (between Georgia Elwiss and Georgia Adams; followed by Emily Windsor and Freya Kemp) took ‘Vipers’ to victory. Separately as Head Coach, Charlotte Edwards holds all three domestic women’s trophies, two with ‘Vipers’ including the one named in her honour for 20 overs.’ Charlotte Edwards is also Head Coach with ‘Southern Brave,’ winners of The Hundred (Women) trophy (2023.) Separately, commentators mentioned that ‘Vipers’ had won back their 50-overs title for a third year, previously lost to ‘Diamonds’; only last year.

Match result: Southern Vipers 203/5 (target 201 from 40.2/48 overs) beat The Blaze 200/8 (48/48 overs) by five wickets; with 46 balls remaining.

*‘Blaze’s’ batting: 200/8 (48/48 overs @4.1 runs-per-over); Tammy Beaumont 76(104), Sophie Munro 33(66), Kirstie Gordon 21*(26); ‘Vipers’’ bowling: Linsey Smith 3/30, Charlie Dean 2/27, Georgia Adams 2/43, Mary Taylor 1/39; Fow: 1-3, 2-6, 3-45, 4-66, 5-106, 6-154, 7-163, 8-183.

*’Vipers’’ batting: 203/5 (40.2/48 overs @5.0 r-p-o); Emily Windsor 57*not out (53), Georgia Elwiss 50(69), Georgia Adams 39(52), Freya Kemp 32(35); ‘Blaze’s’ bowling: Josie Groves 3/39, Kathryn Bryce 2/48; Fow: 1-1, 2-4, 3-100, 4-101, 5-109.

*Scorecard courtesy of ECB @URL https://www.ecb.co.uk/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy/matches/35842#scorecard

*Video highlights, via  ECB (via NV Play) @URL https://www.ecb.co.uk/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy/matches/35842#videos

*Match highlights free-to-air courtesy of England and Wales Cricket Board (believed to be via NV Play) on ‘YouTube’ Livestream [9h47m] @URL https://www.ecb.co.uk/video/3699435/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy-final-highlights–southern-vipers-vs-the-blaze

Glos-Pury’s first victory
The first final to involve two clubs outside London.
The first final to be played on the home ground of one of the finalists, a feature not to be repeated. But how to be sure? Choose HQ? Vickii Cornborough did suggest it six years ago.
The first time a famous stadium has been renamed in honour of a final (Queensholm)
The first time a head coach has been in charge of both clubs. She still seemed pretty upset.

And:

The biggest crowd yet for a final, 9,668.
But none of the four officials was a woman. Contrast the Trent Bridge test: both umpires women.

Quins remain the only side to win the trophy after failing to finish top of the league.

Yet another game was marred by a sequence of yellow cards; commentators once more saying: ‘She was lucky it wasn’t red’.

In the commendable search for a safer game, the law-makers need to scratch their heads again to find a way of ensuring spectators get a 15 v 15 game. Other punishments are available, though not tying boot-laces together.

A fortnight before the final, Chiefs announced an open-top bus parade through the centre of the city of Exeter to celebrate two victories, by their men’s and women’s teams.

The men won the Premiership Rugby Cup in extra time against London Irish. The women won the Allianz Cup for the second time running.

To put these triumphs into some perspective: Chiefs’ men’s side finished seventh in the Gallagher Premiership league, and player after player is leaving the club for other shores.

The Allianz Cup passed under the radar of most rugby fans. Chiefs posted strong sides for their matches; wasn’t the underlying principle to give the other squad members a chance to shine?

The new regulations

England v The World: Exeter 5-10; G-H 10-5. How will those ratios be forced to change before next season?

If the eligibility regulations for next season are really tight, that may have been Exeter’s last chance to win the title for a good few years.

One suggestion is that as many as 16 of the listed squad of 23 must be England Qualified Players (EQPs). That would change the face of several clubs. Bristol, Exeter, Sale, Loughborough, Worcester, to name but half of them. It would also limit the field the two new clubs can pick from. The policy that Susie Appleby followed mid-lockdown cannot be followed. Presumably only the very best non-EQPs would be considered, to conform to the rules while ensuring a successful season.

During an eventful Finals day, Vipers were twice interrupted by Thunder, on their way to winning their second Charlotte Edwards Cup (affectionally known by Vipers players as ‘Little Lottie.’) Match was adjourned for inclement weather, with Blaze said to be ‘in a pickle,’ mid-way through their 10th over. With biggest hitters (including England’s Tammy Beaumont) back in the ‘dug-out,’ Blaze fell short of making a defendable score. Vipers’ opener Danni Wyatt made her second ‘fifty’ inside 2 days. Fittingly, Vipers skipper Georgia Adams struck 2 ‘fours’ to retain the Cup with ‘back-to-back’ wins. POTM was awarded to Vipers’ player-coach Anya Shrubsole. Commentator Michael McCann (Sports journalist) appeared on both days, with Sophie Luff (Storm skipper). Other commentators were Charles Dagnall (TV broadcaster & former cricketer,) Mark Church (BBC), with players Sophie Luff (Storm skipper – on both days.) Also Aylish Cranstone (Stars) & Jo Gardner (Sunrisers.) Special guest was Georgie Heath (Sports journalist & ‘Women’s Cricket Chat’ social media.) Video highlights from ECB online (NV Play); with full match video from ‘The Blaze’ (Trent Bridge) & coverage by BBC radio (including Phil Cartwright & Kevan ‘Kev’ James) – please see below. Weather: rain stopped play. Match was adjourned and concluded on the reserve day.

Blaze batting – day 1: *Skipper Kirstie Gordon *[Nicole Faltum keeping wicket for Vipers] *With released England players Tammy Beaumont, Sarah Glenn & Kirstie Gordon & Scotland’s Kathryn & Sarah Bryce. *International player Nadine deKlerk (Republic of South Africa) *Without Natalie ‘Nat’ Sciver-Brunt. *Tammy Beaumont 4 runs (from 3 balls) went ‘leg before,’ playing forward to Anya Shrubsole’s 3rd ball. *Sarah Bryce 13(9) steepled to keeper Nicole Faltum – collecting backward of ‘gulley,’ from Anya Shrubsole’s (2/24) second ‘over.’ *After 6 overs’ PowerPlay, Blaze were 34/2. *Georgie Boyce 21 (21) snicked an edge to Nicole Faltum, bowled by Georgia Adams *Next over, Kathryn Bryce 10(15) middle-stump was flattened by Linsey Smith (1/15.) *Heavy rain stopped play mid-way through the 10th over. *Later decided the match was to be adjourned. *Blaze batting – day 2: Next day, Charlie Dean completed her over with 3 ‘dot’ balls. *After 10 overs, Blaze remained 53/4. *Sarah Glenn 7(11) was caught ‘in the deep’ by Freya Kemp from Charlie Dean *After 16.4 overs (100 balls), Blaze were 94/5. *Nadine deKlerk 14 (14) off-stump was flattened by Charlie Dean (2/21) *Sophie Munro 0(1) ‘off-stump’ was flattened for a ‘golden duck’ from Georgia Adams (2/20) *During the final over, Lucy Higham 6 (8) edged to Nicole Faltum, bowled by Mary Taylor’s pace (1/7) *Marie Kelly 26*not out (36) *Skipper Kirstie Gordon was 3*not out (2.) Three Vipers bowlers took 2 wickets each.

Vipers batting: *Skipper Georgia Adams *[Sarah Bryce keeping wicket for Blaze] *With released England players Danni Wyatt, Maia Bouchier & Charlie Dean. *International player Nicole Faltum (Australia Women’s Big Bash League WBBL.) *After 6 overs’ PowerPlay, Vipers were 61/0 (vs 34/2.) *Next over, Maia Bouchier 25(20) lost both bails to Sarah Glenn (1/22.) *After 10 overs, Vipers were 85/1 (vs 53/4); *Next over, Danni Wyatt 50 (28) went ‘leg before’ to an in-swinger from Nadine deKlerk (1/22) *Ella McCaughan 13(18) stepped down-the-wicket and was stumped by Sarah Bryce from Lucy Higham (1/16.) *Hitting 2 consecutive ‘fours’ to win, skipper Adams was 16* not out (12) *Freya Kemp *not out 13 (8) hit the only ’six’ of the match, but didn’t bowl. *Receiving POTM, Anya Shrubsole (2/24) was stand-out bowler. Deciding to announce her bowling retirement Shrubsole later told viewers: ‘that had hurt!’ For clarity, player-coach Anya Shrubsole mentioned retiring after ‘The Hundred’ (i.e.: in late August); to continue coaching Vipers’ bowlers. Previously when playing for England, Anya Shrubsole was awarded POTM in the Women’s Cricket World Cup Final of 2017.

Match summary: At the first step, Vipers beat Thunder in a north-south derby semi-final. At the second-step, Vipers played unbeaten Blaze in the same-day Final. Once thunder struck at Worcester, the match was adjourned with Blaze ‘in a pickle’ on 53/4. Commentators suggested that rain ‘came at the right time:’ giving each side an opportunity to take stock for when play resumed. Commentator, agreed that Blaze had (been afforded) ‘plenty of time to decide’ (how to play) their remaining ten overs. Vipers’ bowlers took another 4 Blaze wickets, leaving a barely defendable score for Vipers to chase down. Vipers opener Danni Wyatt scored back-to-back ‘fifties.’ As mentioned above, Georgia Adams scored winning runs to win by a comfortable margin. After the match, Vipers players gave interviews including: Georgia Adams, Anya Shrubsole, Danni Wyatt, Georgia Elwiss & Chloe Hill. Charlotte Edwards CBE was also interviewed, please see URL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0ftlj9h

Match result: Southern Vipers Women 118/3 beat The Blaze Women 114/8 by 7 wickets with 16 balls remaining

*Blaze’s batting: 114/8 (20/20 overs @ 5.7 runs-per-over); Marie Kelly 26*not out(36), Georgie Boyce 21(21), Nadine deKlerk 14(14), Kathryn Bryce 10(15), Sarah Bryce 13(9); Vipers’ bowling: Georgia Adams 2/20, Charlie Dean 2/21, Anya Shrubsole 2/24, Mary Taylor 1/7, Linsey Smith 1/15; Fow: 1-4, 2-19, 3-47, 4-51, 5-67, 6-95, 7-98, 8-110.

*Vipers’ batting: 118/3 (17.2/20 overs @ 8.2 r-p-o); Danni Wyatt 50(28), Maia Bouchier 25 (20), Georgia Adams 16*not out (12), Freya Kemp 13*not out(8), Ella McCaughan 13(18); Blaze bowling: Lucy Higham 1/16, Sarah Glenn 1/22, Nadine deKlerk 1/22; Fow: 1-67, 2-88, 3-94.

*Scorecard with video highlights, courtesy of ECB via NV Play at URL: https://live.nvplay.com/ecb/?tab=m_summary#me0b77539-752c-4c4d-ada3-e2be4600ea30 & BBC @URL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000526

*Full match video courtesy of The Blaze (starting from 08m18s/2h27m14s) via YouTube at URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IgVDNGTbMFY

*Footnote: As mentioned by BBC, the trophy was named after ‘former England Captain Charlotte Edwards’ who won five Ashes series, the World Cup and the World Twenty20.

The showpiece event, which will be held on Sunday 14 May at Wembley Stadium Connected by EE, has seen over 10,000 tickets issued in the last five weeks since the 30k mark was reached, highlighting the appetite fans have for the match, with the Finalists due to be confirmed in April.

A record 49,094 fans witnessed Chelsea’s victory over Manchester City in last year’s Final, with both clubs still in the competition following this past weekend’s Fifth Round.

Tickets for this year’s Final can be purchased here. For accessible tickets please call 0800 093 0824.

Category Pricing
Category 1 – £30
Category 2 – £25
Category 3 – £15
Concession (OAP/Student) – £10
Junior (Under 16) – £5
Group Adult (9+) – £15

The competition is currently at the Quarter-Final stage, with the next set of ties due to be played on Sunday 19 March.

With thanks to the FA

So the final between the two strongest squads will come down to effective run-scoring.

Shweta Sehwarat

India’s trump card is the majestic Shweta Sehwarat, who already looks like a seasoned test player. If England can somehow wheedle her out – a Mankad, a leg-side stumping? – then a door opens. Shafali Verma is the more familiar figure at the crease, but she hasn’t scored big runs yet; the final would be the perfect place to do so.

England’s batting is deep, but their vulnerability was shown this weekend.

India’s bowling is based almost exclusively on spin. On a pitch that must inevitably be wearing – offering either variable bounce or a lot of turn, possibly both – their bowlers may be in clover.

England have the advantage of variety in their bowling options: pace, lateral movement, three sorts of spin and two left-armers. So however the pitch decides to play, they should have every corner covered.

India won their semi at a canter. England could hardly believe they had snatched victory out of the fire. Who will profit from those two contrasting experiences? England may be full of the joys of spring. – believing anything is possible – but they might not survive a second emotional mangling.

After that win over Australia England have yet to lose. India were given a wake-up call when they lost decisively to the same Aussies. Is that long enough ago for them to have regained their equilibrium? Time will tell.

Both are basically confident sides who trust each other to perform under pressure. To my mind, England did show nerves in their semi-final innings; they must hope that that has been a valuable lesson for them. They need to return to the confident approach they had shown previously.

The Indians were told on Saturday who is in the team. We don’t how the England management go about their selection, but it’s hard to imagine many (any?) changes being made.

One thing’s for sure: neither side has faced such quality opposition till now.

Captaincy

Shafali admits she’s still learning about leading her team. She’s a relative beginner, but cricketers go on learning all their careers.

Grace Scrivens has a great advantage there; she has been leading teams for a decade, and she’s still only 19.

Calmness under pressure is an enviable virtue.

The Pitch

By my reckoning this will be the fifteenth match played at the JB Marks Oval across the tournament. That is a challenge for any curator.

It’s equally a challenge for batters.

I have mentioned before the care they need to take. On a true pitch with even bounce they can take risks with confidence, knowing where and when the ball will arrive. Not so under these conditions: stepping away to slap the ball through mid-wicket or swinging hopefully towards long-leg will be fraught with danger. They will need to stay in line and watch the bounce like the proverbial hawk.

We must just hope that no batter is undone by a ball passing under the bat. Passing the outside or inside of the bat will be fine – well done, the bowler. If anyone manages to get the ball passing above the bat, that will be an achievement worthy of a trophy.

May the better team win, not the luckier.

Match Details:

India v England
JB Marks Oval, Potchefstroom
Sunday 29 January
13.45 (local time); 11.45 (GMT)

Lead photo shows Ryana MacDonald-Gay of England

A game of unspeakable intensity and drama saw the Black Ferns snatch a sixth World Cup trophy and end that 30-match winning run of the visiting Red Roses.

Pre-match

The first thunderclap came with the announcement that Leanne Infante had failed a fitness test. This was less of a surprise to the selectors, as she had struggled through the week to recover from a leg injury. That made three absentees from the probable 23; Helena Rowland and Hannah Botterman had to watch on as well. And England were committed to that 6-2 split, which left the backs dangerously under-represented.

The second was the decison to replace her with Lucy Packer. At once, the management’s mistaken discarding of Mo Hunt seemed to be their just reward. In the event Packer had a thoroughly fine game. And, to make matters even more ironic, when Claudia MacDonald finally appeared in her place, she played so close to Hunt’s style that that early selection decision looked even odder. And remember, both Bemand and Middleton were in agreement on it.

Several times Macdonald sought a hole in the Kiwi defences, without tangible success.

The match

A full house saw the Red Roses start as they meant to continue. Zoe Harrison offered the first of a string of telling kicks into Black Fern territory; Abby Dow produced another fend and delivered an inside pass. The ball whistled across field to Ellie Kildunne on the right, and she was over. (0-7)

When Kendra Cocksedge hoisted a box-kick to get her wide backs into the game, Harrison produced another long relieving response. On nine minutes Portia Woodman had her first threatening run. As she was held she flung a hopeful pass inside – all part of the Wayne Smith philosophy, we may be sure – but England snaffled the ball and Harrison cleared lengthily again. Woodman had another run; but Hollie Davidson awarded England a penalty to keep things tight.

When the Ferns offended at a breakdown, Harrison kicked to within 10 metres of the line. That was good enough for the forwards; they drove irresistibly and Amy Cokayne completed the job. (0-14)

Lucy Packer proved her worth when yet another clearance kick by Holly Aitchison was charged down. She reacted sharply to save the situation.

The deciding moment

Now the game turned on its head. On 17 minutes the Black Ferns attacked so strongly down their left flank that Lydia Thompson had to rush in to halt the raid She met Woodman head on head and paid the penalty with a red card. No questions asked; she had to depart, distraught. Equally significant, Woodman left the field as well. Her replacement, Ayesha Leti-I’iga, was to have another stormer of a game.

That left the Red Roses with 63 minutes still left on the clock. Could they possibly survive?

In their practice sessions they had been through all the possible downturns that could befall them; they were fit, but this was asking a great deal.

At once the Black Ferns exploited the advantage. They produced their version of a rolling maul and Georgia Ponsonby was over. (7-14)

Astonishingly, England responded to that set-back within a minute. New Zealand allowed them a line-out on their 22, from where the Red Rose pack trundled the ball all the way to the line; Marlie Packer the insatiable scorer. (7-19) That gave them some breathing space – or did it?

A careless off-side at the kick-off undid the good work. The Ferns drove towards the line for Leti- I’iga on the wide left to cross to great jubilation. Kildunne was left marking the outside centre with the winger in open country. (14-19).

The drama continued remorselessly. Ruahei Demant kicked the ball straight out; then Zoe Aldcroft went off for an HIA (replaced by Cath O’Donnell). The next moment a New Zealand relieving kick gained little ground, but they were facing a breeze. Now came another big English drive; as the ball was spun wide, an interception looked dangerous, but Davidson called a penalty. Harrrison planted the ball into touch eight metres out. The follow-up was inevitable; a second try to Cokayne. (14-26)

Could the 14 really finish the job? The Black Ferns were making tiny errors; Harrison’s right boot went on producing results. Despite a penalty against O’Donnell for a neck-roll, England’s out-half chipped an exquisite kick to within five metres. This time no score ensued. instead, the Ferns resorted to their handling game, and England were manning the dyke again.

As Davidson was glancing at her watch, Amy Rule was on the end of another drive, a vital score at a vital moment.

Half-time 19-26

That was seven tries and a red card squeezed into half a match. Could England possibly survive? The answer was a dramatic NO. Poppy Cleall came on at once to replace the skipper, but Stacey Fluhler worked more magic to send Renne Holmes over within a minute. (24-26). Smelling salts needed.

A long Scarratt punt was caught on the full by Leti-I’iga, but she knocked it on. Another kick went straight to Cocksedge who aimed for touch. Her reward, a defining try.

It involved a weakness spotted as soon as Lucy Packer was preferred to Hunt in the group of 32: Krystal Murray barged her way through her to give the Ferns the lead for the first time.

That was an unequal one-on-one. (29-24)

The drama was far from over.

On 50 minutes Sadia Kabeya and Macdonald were sent on.

England at last managed to apply their own pressure. A knock-on in the Ferns’ 22 allowed them another shot at a drive. It worked; a hat-trick for Cokayne. Irony of ironies.

The strain was beginning to tell on the English, but as Dow retrieved a nasty position and started haring towards the right touch-line, Kennedy Simon tackled her too high. A yellow was the decision after a TMO referral. 14 v 14 now! Dow was carefully checked and alllowed to continue. A while later she was hauled off for a proper HIA, to be replaced by Kildunne.

The Black Ferns attacked again. Fluhler again showed her class as she off-loaded to Leti-I’iga who was over for her second.

As the seconds ticked by, the Red Roses displayed their tenacity by hammering at the line. It seemed impossible for the tension to squeeze any higher, but it did. They had two line-outs in succession on the 5-metre line. The first drive failed to get over the line, but a second chance followed. Was it inevitable that at the winner-takes-all moment possession was lost? Lark Davies had already failed once to find her target, the rarest of occurrences. The ball found its way pronto into touch and the game was done.

Result: New Zealand 34 England 31
Player of the Match: Ruahei Demant
Atendance: 42,579, a new record by a country mile

Teams:
New Zealand

15 Renee Holmes, 14 Ruby Tui, 13 Stacey Fluhler, 12 Theresa Fitzpatrick, 11 Portia Woodman, 10 Ruahei Demant (co-captain), 9 Kendra Cocksedge, 8 Charmaine McMenamin, 7 Sarah Hirini, 6 Alana Bremner, 5 Chelsea Bremner, 4 Maiakawanakaulani Roos, 3 Amy Rule, 2 Georgia Ponsonby, 1 Phillipa Love

Bench:

16 Luka Connor, 17 Krystal Murray, 18 Santo Taumata, 19 Joanah Ngan-Woo, 20 Kennedy Simon (co-captain), 21 Ariana Bayler, 22 Hazel Tubic, 23 Ayesha Leti-I’iga

England:

15 Ellie Kildunne (Harlequins, 30 caps), 14 Lydia Thompson (University of Worcester Warriors, 57 caps), 13 Emily Scarratt (Loughborough Lightning, 107 caps), 12 Holly Aitchison (Saracens, 14 caps), 11 Abby Dow (Wasps, 29 caps), 10 Zoe Harrison (Saracens, 45 caps), 9 Leanne Infante (Saracens, 57 caps), 1 Vickii Cornborough (Harlequins, 74 caps), 2 Amy Cokayne (Harlequins, 69 caps), 3 Sarah Bern (Bristol Bears, 51 caps), 4 Zoe Aldcroft (Gloucester-Hartpury, 37 caps), 5 Abbie Ward (Bristol Bears, 60 caps), 6 Alex Matthews (Gloucester-Hartpury, 55 caps), 7 Marlie Packer (Saracens, 88 caps), 8 Sarah Hunter (captain, Loughborough Lightning, 139 caps)

Bench:

16 Lark Davies (Bristol Bears, 43 caps), 17 Maud Muir (Gloucester-Hartpury, 16 caps), 18 Shaunagh Brown (Harlequins, 29 caps), 19 Cath O’Donnell (Loughborough Lightning, 23 caps), 20 Poppy Cleall (Saracens, 62 caps), 21 Sadia Kabeya (Loughborough Lightning, 7 caps), 22 Claudia MacDonald (Exeter Chiefs, 23 caps), 23 Tatyana Heard (Gloucester-Hartpury, 8 caps)

Officials:

Referee Hollie Davidson (SRU) AR1 Aimee Barrett-Theron (SARU) AR2 Aurélie Groizeleau (FFR) TMO Ben Whitehouse (WRU)

This was a game of the most unbelievable tension and drama. The previous final had been hailed on all sides as the greatest women’s rugby match ever played. This one, for all its faults, outranks it.

Wayne Smith now retires. And Simon Middleton’s future?

The inquests begin

After years of waiting and guessing, now at last we discover the management’s idea of the ideal England team.

Here is the squad for the game that really matters:

15. Ellie Kildunne (Harlequins, 30 caps)
14. Lydia Thompson (University of Worcester Warriors, 57 caps)
13. Emily Scarratt (Loughborough Lightning, 107 caps)
12. Holly Aitchison (Saracens, 14 caps)
11. Abby Dow (Wasps, 29 caps)
10. Zoe Harrison (Saracens, 45 caps)
9. Leanne Infante (Saracens, 57 caps)
1. Vickii Cornborough (Harlequins, 74 caps)
2. Amy Cokayne (Harlequins, 69 caps)
3. Sarah Bern (Bristol Bears, 51 caps)
4. Zoe Aldcroft (Gloucester-Hartpury, 37 caps)
5. Abbie Ward (Bristol Bears, 60 caps)
6. Alex Matthews (Gloucester-Hartpury, 55 caps)
7. Marlie Packer (Saracens, 88 caps)
8. Sarah Hunter (captain, Loughborough Lightning, 139 caps)

Bench:

16. Lark Davies (Bristol Bears, 43 caps)
17. Maud Muir (Gloucester-Hartpury, 16 caps)
18. Shaunagh Brown (Harlequins, 29 caps)
19. Cath O’Donnell (Loughborough Lightning, 23 caps)
20. Poppy Cleall (Saracens, 62 caps)
21. Sadia Kabeya (Loughborough Lightning, 7 caps)
22. Claudia MacDonald (Exeter Chiefs, 23 caps)
23. Tatyana Heard (Gloucester-Hartpury, 8 caps)

Of course Simon Middleton did not have a completely open field to choose from; injuries were almost bound to take their effect. Sadly Helena Rowland becomes the top-choice player to miss out, unable to recover in time. Ellie Kildunne takes her place, no surprise to New Zealanders who saw her perform against the Black Ferns on the European tour.

Two significant changes: first Lydia Thompson is restored to the wing, where she has caused pain to Kiwi defences in the past. Her own defensive skills may have played a large part in her choice; second, Holly Aitchison returns to the pivotal position of 12. This reintroduces the system of a 10-12 axis that Rowland and Zoe Harrison had provided. For all her skills Tatyana Heard couldn’t offer the same sort of midfield balance. And all this means that Jess Breach, once the most obvious choice on the wing, misses out again.

Up front, Hannah Botterman has the misfortune to be in the same position as Rowland. Last week’s injury proved too serious.

The only other doubt was whether Lark Davies might be restored to the No 2 shirt. She isn’t, but adds to the strength of the bench. Cath O’Donnell deserves huge credit for gaining the reserve spot at lock. She has fought back after a long battle over injury. But then, which of the squad of 33 has not known such privation?

Once more the number of caps on display takes the breath away. Vickii Cornborough will post three-quarters of a century, and just two of the 23 are still in single figures. That may yet be a defining advantage for the Red Roses. And they will be far more familiar with Hollie Davidson’s ways than the Ferns.

By the way, congratulations to her on her appointment. It had looked highly likely from the moment her name was glaringly absent from the semi-final lists.

The Black Ferns

Injuries have affected the Black Ferns too. Liana Mikaele-Tu’u, their impressive young No 8, is ruled out with a bad thumb. The squad has just been announced. A possible first World Cup start for Kennedy Simon, the co-captain will not happen; she stays on the bench. Instead the experienced Charmine Mcmenamin will hold the pack together at No 8.

This is likely to be Kendra Cocksedge’s swan-song after a record 67 appearances. Will she get the better of Leanne Infante this time? She came off second best in last year’s scuffles.

World-wide Attention

Here’s how far the final is attracting attention: Orkney RFC are providing breakfast at half-time. Can you get there in time?

Some stats from the past

The two sides have met 28 times before this final. The balance stands 18-10 in the Black Ferns’ favour. They have met at Eden Park only twice; scores 29-10 (2013) and 33-8 (2005) in New Zealand’s favour.

But of all visiting nations England have by far the best record of wins in Aotearoa.

It’s quite a thought that among the 46 players to reach this peak of excellence, there are a few, a very few, who have achieved it four times.