Lauded as ‘young talent,’ ‘Rockets’ Alexa Stonehouse took 2 wickets from 7 balls at the start; and came close to snatching a win, hitting 3 back-to-back ‘fours – as ‘Rockets’ closed 3 runs short. ‘Invincibles’ POTM Meerkat Match Hero was Nadine deKlerk [51* runs ‘not out,’ from 25 balls] made ‘fifty for ‘Invincibles’ with top score & took 1/35. 18yo spin-bowler Sophia Smale 2/26 (pictured) went one better as ‘Invincibles’ best bowler, taking two wickets with one ‘run-out’ taken as bowler at the ’non-striker’s end. Separately, Sophia Smale previously ‘starred’ in the outgoing champions’ team; and also played for England’s u19’s-IT20’s. Both teams finished their campaigns outside final three qualification, but finished level on points. Introduced for SKY TV by Ian Ward and Nasser Hussain (ex-England) with Ebony Rainford-Brent MBE (Director of Women’s cricket at Surrey & ex-England); plus NZ TV personality (& ex NZ player) Simon Doull. Match highlights courtesy of Sky Sports (please see below.) Weather was ‘gloriously’ sunny.

OI-W *Skipper Suzie Bates (ex-skipper NZ) *[‘Rockets’ keeper Lizelle Lee] *Other international players Marizanne Kapp & Nadine deKlerk replacing Dane vanNiekerk (Rep. South Africa.) Also with Alice Capsey, Paige Scholfield & Mady Villiers plus Lauren Winfield-Hill (ex England keeper); Also Ryana Macdonald-Gay, Cordelia Griffith, Sophia Smale & Alexa Stonehouse (England u-19’s IT20.) Without & Katie George & Kira Chathli. *Lauren Winfield-Hill 0(2) took a ‘wide swing,’ missing a 2nd-ball ‘jaffa’ that held-its-line. *Alexa Stonehouse collected 2 wickets from 7 balls when Suzie Bates 7(8), lost her ‘off-stump’ when missing a leg-side ‘slog-sweep.’ *After 25 balls ‘PowerPlay,’ ‘Invincibles’ were 30/2. *Marizanne Kapp 9(14), was stumped by keeper Lizelle Lee upon review, from Kirstie Gordon; said to be ‘gifted’ as a ’soft dismissal:’ as her foot ‘wasn’t grounded.’ *At mid-way, ‘Invincibles’ were 58/3. *3 balls later, commentator’s curse struck when Alice Capsey 35(24), made ‘encouraging signs’ but was beaten ‘completely’ beneath her bat by Kirstie Gordon’s slower ball. *Paige Scholfield  13(12) went for a ‘dangerous heave’ across-the-line, and was bowled ‘middle-and-off’ by Naomi Dattani (1/14.)*Finally, Cordelia Griffith 23(16) was stumped from the penultimate innings ball by Lizelle Lee from Bryony Smith (1/32.) *Nadine deKlerk was 51*not out (25.) *Mady Villiers was 2*not out (1.) *Best batter was Marizanne Kapp 30(24); *Best ’‘Rockets’ bowler was Kirstie Gordon 2/19.

TR-W *Skipper Natalie ‘Nat’ Sciver-Brunt [* ‘Invincibles’ keeper Lauren Winfield-Hill] *International players Harmanpreet Kaur (India), Alana King (Australia) & Lizelle Lee (ex Rep. South Africa) with Natalie Sciver-Brunt (England); Bryony Smith & Kirstie Gordon (England ‘A’) Fran Wilson (ex England) & Alexa Stonehouse (England u-19’s) Cassidy McCarthy, replacing Katherine Sciver-Brunt, the latter honoured for having played the ‘last game of her career.’ *Bryony Smith 9(8) made a ‘reverse cut,’ that was caught at ‘mid-off’ by Suzie Bates’ from the ‘toe-end’ of her bat; from Marizanne Kapp (1/27) *’Rockets’ were 36/1 (vs 30/2) after 25 balls ‘PowerPlay’ & *After 50 balls, ‘Rockets’ were 71/2 (vs 58/3) *Harmanpreet Kaur 9 (12) went ‘leg-before without review, to Eva Gray’s ‘dead straight’ ball (1/12)  *’Bang in-form’ Skipper Natalie ‘Nat’ Sciver-Brunt 21(17) went ‘leg-before’ ‘hitting ‘middle-stump upon hawk-eye review, to Sophia Smale. *Two balls later, Lizelle Lee 61(33) who’d struck 3 ‘sixes’ and 6 ‘fours’ was ’run out’ by Paige Scholfield, at the non-striker’s end. *4 balls later, Joanne ‘Jo’ Gardner 8(6) was caught-and-bowled, lobbing-a-returned-dolly to Paige Scholfield (1/31.) *3 wickets fell from the last 20 balls. *Upon review, Fran Wilson 2(2) was ’run out’ by Nadine deKlerk ‘in-the-deep,’ by Sophia Smale at the ‘non-striker’s end,’ crossing-the-line’ but failing to ‘ground-her-bat.’ *Six balls later, Alana King 7(4) drifted leg-side, bowled ‘top-of-middle’ by Sophia Smale (2/26.) *Finally, Naomi Dattani 13(11) was caught at ‘deep-mid-wicket’ by Paige Scholfield from Nadine deKlerk (1/35) *Hitting 3 back-to-back ‘fours,’ Alexa Stonehouse 16*not out(7) was lauded to be ‘young talent.’ *Best ‘Rockets’ batter was Lizelle Lee 61(33) *As mentioned above, Best ‘Invincibles’ bowler was Sophia Smale 2/26.

Match summary: Playing for pride, both teams put-on good entertainment right through the entire match. ‘Rockets’ bowlers struck with early wickets. Alexa Stonehouse (seam) took 2 wickets from 7 balls at the start, followed by Kirstie Gordon (spin) who took wickets either side of mid-way. A lower-order partnership of 68 runs from 31 balls between Nadine deKlerk and Cordelia Griffth boosted what turned out to be the home team’s score. By comparison, ‘Rockets’ batters made a much better start, opener Lizelle Lee making top-score of the day, scoring ‘fifty’ with 3 ‘sixes’ and 6 ‘fours;’ adding 63 runs from 37 balls with skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt. As mentioned above, the match reached its climax when ‘Rockets’ Alexa Stonehouse came close to ‘snatching a win,’ hitting 3 back-to-back ‘fours.’  ‘Rockets’ closed 3 runs short, handing ‘Invincibles’ a narrow consolation win. Both teams failed to qualify in the final three, but finished their campaigns with equal points.

Match result: Oval Invincibles Women  155/6 beat Trent Rockets Women 152/8 by 3 runs

*‘Invincibles’’ batting: 155/6 (1.5 runs-per-ball); Nadine deKlerk 51*not out(25), Alice Capsey 35(24), Cordelia Griffith 23(16), Paige Scholfield 13(12); *’Rockets’’ bowling: Kirstie Gordon 2/19, Alexa Stonehouse 2/39, Naomi Dattani 1/14, Bryony Smith 1/32; Fow 1-0, 2-30, 3-46, 4-62, 4-85, 5-153. *’Rockets’ ‘batting: 152/8 (1.5 r-p-b); Lizelle Lee 61(33), Natalie ‘Nat’ Sciver-Brunt 21(17), Alexa Stonehouse 16(7), Naomi Dattani 13(11); *‘Invincibles’’ bowling: Sophia Smale 2/26, Eva Gray 1/12, Marianne Kapp 1/27, Paige Scholfield 1/31, Nadine deKlerk 1/35; *Fow 1-19, 2-42, 3-105, 4-107, 5-113, 6-117, 7-126, 8-138.

*Scorecard courtesy of BBC Sport @URL https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000745

*Match highlights courtesy of Sky Sports @URL https://www.skysports.com/cricket/news/12040/12944725/the-hundred-nadine-de-klerks-unbeaten-half-century-sets-up-consolation-win-for-oval-invincibles

‘Midlands’ derby’ that was for ‘Rockets,’ was ‘The Last Chance Saloon:’ if they lost, they were ‘out;’ whereas even if ‘Phoenix’ won, they look set to receive the tournament’s ‘wooden spoon.’ When batting second, TV analysts found that ‘Phoenix’ had struggled to ‘knock runs off’ (their opponents scores) to win matches. Batting first, ‘Rockets’ put pressure on ‘Phoenix’ bowlers from the outset. Partnered by skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt POTM Meerkat Match Hero Bryony Smith (pictured) [64 runs from 40 balls] was ’outstanding’ as the only batter to score ‘fifty.’ After the match, Bryony Smith told Ravi Shastri that ‘Phoenix’ bowlers had done well, to’ take-the-pace-off.’  That made scoring more difficult for ‘Rockets’ as the match went down to the last delivery. Commentators added that it was Katherine Sciver-Brunt’s ‘final home match’ before retirement, playing at Trent Bridge. Introduced for SKY TV by Lydia Greenway, Mike Atherton (former England players); Charles Dagnall & Ravi Shastri (former India Coach & Skipper.) Match highlights from SKY Sports TV – please see below. Weather at Trent Bridge provided ‘perfect’ conditions for playing cricket.

TR-W *Skipper Natalie ‘Nat’ Sciver-Brunt [*Amy Jones keeping wicket for ‘Phoenix’] *International players Harmanpreet Kaur (India), Alana King (Australia) & Lizelle Lee (ex Rep. South Africa) with Natalie Sciver-Brunt (England); Bryony Smith & Kirstie Gordon (England ‘A’) Fran Wilson (ex England) & Alexa Stonehouse (England u-19’s) *Lizelle Lee 3(8) was caught by Eve Jones from Sophie Devine (1/19) *Rockets made an ‘emphatic’ start with 45/1 after 25 balls ‘Power-play.’ *Skipper Natalie ‘Nat’ Sciver-Brunt 18(11); was bowled ‘middle-and-off’ by Emily Arlott: said to be a ‘big-wicket’ could have done more damage. *After 50 balls, ‘Rockets’ were 80/2. *Harmanpreet Kaur 5(8) went ‘leg-before’ upon Third Umpire’s review (‘Hawk-Eye’); from Emily Arlott. *‘Strategic-time-out’ called after 75 balls on 112/3. *Bryony Smith 64(40) was stumped by keeper Amy Jones, coming down-the-wicket to Katie Levick. *Fran Wilson 22(19) was bowled ‘middle stump’ by Katie Levick (2/30.) *Joanne ‘Jo’ Gardner 7(10) was caught one-handed from an ‘outside-edge’ by keeper Amy Jones from ‘Phoenix’ best bowler, Emily Arlott (3/15.) *Naomi Dattani 2*not out(3); & Alana King 2*not out(1); Best ‘Rockets’ batter was Bryony Smith 64(40.)

BP-W *Skipper Evelyn ‘Eve’ Jones [*Rockets keeper Lizelle Lee] *International players Sophie Devine (NZ), Erin Burns & Tess Flintoff (Australia, WBBL), Sterre Kalis (NL) with Amy Jones, Issy Wong (England) & u-19’s World Cup player Hannah Baker. *After 25 balls, ‘Phoenix’ were 21/0 (vs 45/1.) *Eve Jones 16(20), ‘run out’ following a missed stumping, by Alexa Stonehouse throwing to the ‘non-striker’s’ end. *5 balls later Sophie Devine 28(25), caught ‘on appeal’ by keeper Lizelle Lee from Kirstie Gordon (1/20) *After 50 balls, ‘Phoenix’ were 54/2 (vs 80/2.) *Erin Burns 16(17) was caught by ‘mid-wicket’ by Nat Sciver-Brunt from Alana King 1/23; after checking for ’no ball.’ *Emily Arlott 9(3) was ‘run-out’ by Bryony Smith when taking an ‘overthrow’ from Katherine Sciver-Brunt  *’Phoenix’s’ best batter was Amy Jones was 46*not out (30), *’Rockets’’ best bowler was Kirstie Gordon 1/20.

Match summary: Previously, whenever batting second, commentators said that ‘Phoenix’ had struggled to ‘knock runs off’ (their opponents scores) to win matches. Batting first, ‘Rockets’ put pressure on ‘Phoenix’ as soon as they made an ‘emphatic’ start, ’scoring quickly’ from their ‘PowerPlay (45/1 vs 21/0.) As mentioned above, POTM Meerkat Match Hero Bryony Smith was ’star-of-the-day’ as the only batter to score ‘fifty’ for ‘Rockets.’ Amy Jones closed four runs short of ‘fifty,’ as once again, ‘Phoenix’ struggled to ‘knock runs off’ their target score and closed a few runs short of a consolation win. Separately, commentators speculated that ‘Rockets’ aspirations to progress to the play-off/eliminator still ‘looked slim.’ Separately, ‘Fire’ looked set to win or tie one (or both) of their their two remaining matches: in which case ‘Fire’ would qualify ahead of ‘Rockets’ on points. Latest table @URL https://www.thehundred.com/standings/

Match result: Trent Rockets Women 134/6 beat Birmingham Phoenix Women 131/4 by 3 runs

*’Rockets’’ batting: 134/6 (from 100 balls @1.3 runs-per-over) Bryony Smith 64(40); Fran Wilson 22(19), Natalie ‘Nat’ Sciver-Brunt 18(11); *’Phoenix’’ bowling: Emily Arlott (3/15), Katie Levick (2/30), Sophie Devine (1/19); Fow 1-36, 2-80, 3-87, 4-114, 5-127, 6-132.

*’Phoenix’s batting:  131/4 (from 100 balls @1.3 r-p-o) Amy Jones 46*not out (30), Sophie Devine 28(25), Eve Jones 16(20), Erin Burns 16(17); *’Rockets’’ bowling: Kirstie Gordon 1/20, Alana King 1/23. Fow 1-47, 2-51, 3-94, 4-106.

*Scorecard courtesy of BBC Sport @URL https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000741

*Match highlights (6m32s) courtesy of Sky Sports @URL https://www.skysports.com/the-hundred/news/36890/12942873/the-hundred-trent-rockets-still-have-slim-hopes-of-play-off-place-after-beating-birmingham-phoenix

‘Originals’ found themselves knocked-out of the competition by failing to post a defendable score. Before the match, commentators said that Originals needed points to qualify for the tournament’s next stage. For ‘Rockets,’ it was ‘more simple:’ if they lost, they were said to be ‘out.’ Commentators added that the top 3 qualifiers for the ‘finals’ could be decided as early as Friday, if ‘Superchargers’ booked their place by beating ‘Spirit’ at Lord’s. POTM Meerkat Match Hero ‘Rockets” Bryony Smith [28 runs from 19 balls & 1/27] (pictured) hit 6 ‘fours’ and was said to be ‘hugely impressive.’ Together with Lizelle Lee ‘who’d been world-class’ for some ‘considerable time,’ the pair of batters made an ‘emphatic’ start, banking 60 runs. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt saw ‘Rockets’ safely home by a comfortable margin, partnered by Lizelle Lee, who hit the match-winning ‘six.’ Introduced for SKY TV by Simon Doull (NZ TV personality) with Charles Dagnall. Also with James ‘Jimmy’ Anderson & Stuart Broad (Ashes series.) Guest speaker between innings was Ian Martin, ECB’s Head of England Disability Cricket. Match highlights courtesy of SKY Sports (please see below.) Weather at Trent Bridge was warm and sunny, but below average temperature for August.

MO-W *Skipper Sophie Ecclestone [*Lizelle Lee keeping wicket for ‘Rockets’] *International players Laura Wolvaardt (Rep. South Africa), Amanda-Jade Wellington (Australia ‘A’ & WBBL ‘5-fer’ bowler), & Deandre Dottin (ex-WIndies); with England’s Sophie Ecclestone, & England ‘A’s’ Grace Scrivens & Emma Lamb. *Also with Scotland’s Kathryn Bryce. *Emma Lamb 2(6) was caught at ‘short-fine’ by Joanne ‘Jo’ Gardner from Katherine Sciver-Brunt. *Fi Morris 1(4) was caught at ‘mid-off’ by Harmanpreet Kaur rolling backwards, from Alexa Stonehouse *After 25 balls ‘Power-play,’ ‘Originals’ were 19/2. *Laura Wolvaardt partnered by Deandre Dottin staged a recovery, their partnership adding 40. *Laura Wolvaardt 23(31) was stumped by Lizelle Lee from Kirstie Gordon. *Deandre Dottin 30(26) was earlier dropped (by Jo Gardner) on the boundary edge, but 2 runs later later caught at ‘deep-square’ by Alana King from Bryony Smith. *Sophie Ecclestone 5(3) was ‘run-out’ by Kirstie Gordon’s return throw from ‘point,’ immediately following Amanda-Jade Wellington mis-timed sweep – taking a ‘run that wasn’t there’ – from Alana King. *Amanda-Jade Wellington was 22*(not out) (19) added 35 runs with Katie George 14*(not out)13. The pair of ‘All-Rounders’ took ‘Originals’ score past the 100-mark. *‘Originals’ best batter and the only ‘Originals’ batter to score ’six’ was Deandre Dottin 30(26) *’Rockets’ best bowler was Kirstie Gordon 1/18.

TR-W *Skipper Natalie ‘Nat’ Sciver-Brunt [*Ellie Threlkeld keeping wicket for ‘Originals’] *International players Harmanpreet Kaur (India), Alana King (Australia) & Lizelle Lee (ex Rep. South Africa), with Natalie Sciver-Brunt (England); Bryony Smith & Kirstie Gordon (England ‘A’); Fran Wilson (ex England) & Alexa Stonehouse (England u-19’s) *Rockets made an ‘emphatic’ start with ‘Strategic-time-out’ called after 25 balls ‘Power-play’ on 49/0 (vs 19/2.) *Just one wicket fell when Bryony Smith 28(19) top-edged a ‘slog-sweep’ and was caught at ‘short-fine’ by Mahika Gaur, from Sophie Ecclestone. *After 50 balls, ‘Rockets’ were 80/1. *Hitting 5 ‘fours,’ skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt 33*(not out) 18 joined best batter Lizelle Lee 44*(not out)27 who hit 2 ‘sixes’ and 6 ‘fours:’ hitting her second ‘six’ to win the match. *Originals’ best bowler was Sophie Ecclestone (1/34.)

Match summary: The visitors made a slow start, losing two wickets during the PowerPlay to seam-bowling. WIndies legend Deandre Dottin top-scored with 30 runs from 26 balls; until caught by Alana King from Bryony Smith’s ‘off-breaks’. All-rounders Amanda-Jade Wellington partnered by Katie George added 35 runs, toward a defendable total. POTM  Meerkat Match Hero Bryony Smith making an ‘emphatic’ start to ‘Rockets’ run-chase, partnered by Lizelle Lee. Skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt together with Lizelle Lee saw ‘Rockets’ safely home by a wide margin, the result knocking ‘Originals’ out of the competition. ‘Rockets’ 4th (5 points); ‘Originals’ 7th (4 points.)

Match result: Trent Rockets Women 110/1 beat Manchester Originals Women 107/5 by nine wickets (with 36 balls remaining)

*’Originals’’ batting: 107/5 (from 100 balls @1.0 run-per-over): Laura Wolvaardt 23(31), Deandre Dottin 30(26), Amanda-Jade Wellington 22*(not out) (19) *‘Rockets’’ bowling: Kirstie Gordon 1/18, Katherine Sciver-Brunt 1/20, Bryony Smith 1/27, Alexa Stonehouse 1/27; Fow 1-14, 2-15, 3-55, 4-67, 5-72.

*’Rockets’’ batting: 110/1 (from 64/100 balls @1.7 r-p-o): Lizelle Lee 44*(not out)27, Natalie ‘Nat’ Sciver-Brunt 33*(not out)18, Bryony Smith 28(19); *’Originals’’ bowling: Sophie Ecclestone (1/34); Fow 1-60.

*Scorecard courtesy of BBC Sport @URL https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE10007399

*Match highlights (7m40s) courtesy of SKY Sports @URL https://www.skysports.com/the-hundred/video/36891/12941890/highlights-trent-rockets-produce-dominant-display-against-manchester-originals

*Amanda-Jade Wellington’s ‘Secret Life of Wello’ Travel To Nottingham & Training At Trent Bridge; The Hundred Episode 14 via YouTube @URL https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZ8UcM974jc

‘Basement battle,’ with both teams aspiring to make progress beyond the group stage. Before the match, skipper Heather Knight looked forward to ‘Spirit’s first win, had learned from previous ‘dismal’ collapse, adding that it was lovely to come to a ‘good ground.’ As the match progressed, ‘Spirit’s’ batters made double-figures that ‘put runs on the board.’ As predicted, much (was said by commentators to be) ‘riding’ on ‘Rockets’ skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt’s ‘shoulders.’ Partnered by Jo Gardner, the pair hit 3 ‘sixes’ and 1 ‘four’ setting a record 23 runs scored from five balls. During a remarkable turn-around of events, Nat Sciver-Brunt hit two straight ’sixes,’ the second hit from a ’no ball’ to take ‘Rockets’ safely over-the-line. Receiving her POTM Meerkat Match Hero cap-and-medal, Nat Sciver-Brunt (pictured) 81*not out (from 41 balls) played a ‘show-stopping’ skipper’s innings and was pleased to get ‘Rockets’ first win ‘under her belt.’ Introduced by Mel Jones (former player for Australia Women,) Nasser Hussain, Eoin Morgan & Mike Atherton (former England players); with guest commentator Stuart Broad – (Ashes series.) Match highlights courtesy of Sky Sports (please see below.) Weather at Cardiff was overcast, with ‘rain in the air.’

LS-W Skipper Heather Knight.*[Lizelle Lee keeping wicket for ‘Rockets’] *Four internationals: Richa Ghosh (India), Grace Harris (Australia WBBL), Amelia Kerr (NZ); plus Tara Norris (US.) *England’s Heather Knight, Charlie Dean, Sarah Glenn, Danielle ‘Dani’ Gibson; England ‘A’ Lauren Filer and U19’s Grace Scrivens & Sophie Munro.*When changing to spin, Grace Harris 10(7) was caught ‘really well’ by Fran Wilson at ‘backward-point,’ from Kirstie Gordon *’Not quite getting to the-pitch-of-the-ball.’ *Danielle ‘Dani’ Gibson 36(27), was caught at ‘point’ by Alana King from Kirstie Gordon – an ‘important’ wicket. *After 25 balls ‘Power-play,’ Spirit were 25/2. *Commentator’s curse struck when Heather Knight 11(14) who ‘knew how to play spin,’ was caught short of ‘square’ by Jo Gardner from Alana King. *By mid-way, ‘Spirit’ were 63/2. *Richa Ghosh 20(18) snicked to fellow keeper Lizelle Lee who ‘did well’ to hold on to the catch, from Bryony Smith (1/19.) *Best ‘Spirit’ batter was Danielle ‘Dani’ Gibson 36(27.) *Sophie Munro was 5*not out (5) *Best ‘Rockets’ bowler was Kirstie Gordon (2/19) whose figures were dented by bowling during the Power-play, as well as bowling the final 5 balls.

TR-W *Skipper Natalie ‘Nat’ Sciver-Brunt [Richa Ghosh keeping wicket for ‘Spirit’] *Three Internationals: Harmanpreet Kaur (India), Alana King (Australia) & Lizelle Lee (ex Republic South Africa) with Natalie Sciver-Brunt (England); Bryony Smith & Kirstie Gordon (England ‘A’) & Katherine Sciver-Brunt & Fran Wilson (ex England) *With Alexa Stonehouse (England u-19’s.) *During the ‘Power-play’ Lizelle Lee 4(5) top-edged a short ball ‘steepled’ to mid-wicket, caught by Grace Harris from Danielle ‘Dani’ Gibson (1/25.) *Bryony Smith went ‘leg-before’ to Charlie Dean. *After 25 balls ‘Power-play,’ the match was adjourned for a brief shower of rain. *Resuming in ‘much improved conditions’ on 25/2, Harmanpreet Kaur 3(4) went ‘leg-before’ to Sarah Glenn – a ‘huge’ wicket. *By mid-way, ‘Rockets’ were 53/3 (vs 63/2) needing 75 to win. *Fran Wilson and Naomi Dattani departed five balls apart, triggering concern for ‘another batting collapse.’ *Fran Wilson 10(14) was bowled by Lauren Filer’s full-length ‘Yorker’ (1/21.) *Next over, Naomi Dattani lost her off-stump to Sarah Glenn (2/19.) *With 20 balls remaining, skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt partnered by Jo Gardner hit 3 ‘sixes’ and 1 ‘four’ setting a record 23 runs from five balls. *Next over, top-scorer Nat Sciver-Brunt 81*not out (41) hit another two straight ’sixes,’ the second ‘six’ scored from a ’no ball’ to seal ‘Rockets” first win.*’Spirit’s’ best bowler was  Sarah Glenn 2/19.

Match summary  Commentators said there were two ways of playing the pitch. Either by ‘scrambling’ runs from ‘big shots’ (that were often well-fielded) that was ‘not going anywhere.’ Alternatively ’smart batting,’ to play off-spinners ‘with-the-spin,’ batting to ‘target the short-boundary.’ Commentators concluded that ‘spin’ was a ‘massive threat’ and (from what they’d seen) more needed to be done to play spin bowling effectively. Although scores were neck-and-neck for most of the match, SKY Sports ‘match predictor’ forecast Spirit to win until ‘Rockets’ made a surprise come-back. With 20 balls remaining (as mentioned above), skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt partnered by Jo Gardner hit 3 ‘sixes’ and 1 ‘four’ setting a record 23 runs from five balls. Next over, Nat Sciver-Brunt hit two straight ’sixes,’ the second struck from a ’no-ball,’ to win the match. Receiving her POTM Meerkat Match Hero cap-and-medal, Nat Sciver-Brunt 81*not out (41) was pleased to get ‘Rockets’ first win ‘under her belt.’ ‘Rockets’ (3 points) advanced to 5th-place with 4 rounds played-to-date. 7th-placed ‘Spirit’ (2 points) yet to chalk-up their first win.

Match result: Trent Rockets Women 127/5 (target 125) beat London Spirit Women: 124/4 by 5 wickets with 13 balls remaining

*Spirit’s batting: 124/5: (from 100 balls @1.2 runs-per-ball); Danielle ‘Dani’ Gibson 36(27), Amelia Kerr 36*not out (30), Richa Ghosh 20(18), Heather Knight 11(14), Grace Harris 10(7); *Rockets’ bowling: Kirstie Gordon 2/19, Alana King 1/18, Bryony Smith 1/19; Fow 1-27, 2-52, 3-67, 4-100.

*Rockets’ batting: 127/5 (from 86/100 balls @1.4 runs-per-ball); Natalie ‘Nat’ Sciver-Brunt 81*not out (41) Joanne ‘Jo’ Gardner 17(11) Fran Wilson 10*not out(14); *Spirit’s bowling: Sarah Glenn 2/19, Charlie Dean 1/11, Lauren Filer 1/21, Danielle ‘Dani’ Gibson 1/25; Fow 1-4, 2-23, 3-29, 4-80, 5-82.

*Scorecard courtesy of BBC Sport @URL https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000732

*Match highlights courtesy of Sky Sports https://www.skysports.com/cricket/news/12040/12938584/the-womens-hundred-nat-sciver-brunt-fires-trent-rockets-to-victory-with-81-off-41-balls-against-london-spirit

An astonishing match unfolded, where ‘Superchargers’ posted a defendable score that ‘Rockets’ openers made light work of chasing-down. Cruising home’ on 92/1 with 9 wickets in hand, ‘Rockets’ reportedly ‘threw the match away’ from (what should have been) their winning position. ‘Good’ spin-bowling from ‘Superchargers’ spinners took five ‘Rockets’ wickets from just 15 deliveries. ‘Scoreboard pressure’ left ‘Rockets’ 9 runs short. Receiving her POTM Meerkat Match Hero award for taking 3 wickets for 29 runs, bowling ‘off-breaks;’ Lucy Higham (pictured) also caught both ‘Rockets’ openers who made top-score. Lucy Higham was ‘pretty nervous’ to begin with, but was ‘proud’ for the girls. Winning skipper Hollie Armitage ‘couldn’t have asked for more’ from her spinners (at closure.) Introduced by Nick Knight, Charles Dagnall and Dominic Cork (ex-England) with Natalie Germanos (Rep. South Africa), & Kumar Sangakkara (ex-Sri Lanka skipper.) Guest commentator Stuart Broad (England Ashes series.) Match highlights courtesy of Sky Sports (please see below.) Weather at Trent Bridge had improved after recent rain. ‘Warm afternoon,’ but still cool for August.

NSC-W *Skipper Hollie Armitage [*Lizelle Lee keeping wicket for Rockets] *International players Phoebe Litchfield & Georgia Wareham (Australia) & Jemimah Rodrigues (India) replacing Alyssa Healy (Australia.) *With Kate Cross & Alice Davidson-Richards (England) Bess Heath (England ‘A’) & Grace Ballinger (England u-19’s) *Marie Kelly 5(4) ballooned a catch to ’short-third,’ taken by Fran Wilson from Kirstie Gordon’s spin (1/25) *After 25 balls ‘Power-play,’ Superchargers were 24/1. *Jemimah Rodrigues & Phoebe Litchfield 2nd-wicket partnership banked 53 runs until Jemimah Rodrigues 33(32), was bowled by Alexa Stonehouse (1/10) missing a short between ‘short-fine’ and ‘backward-square.’ *Georgia Wareham 13(15) was caught behind by Lizelle Lee from Naomi Dattani’s ‘bouncer.’ *Skipper Hollie Armitage played anchor role to Phoebe Litchfield 38(27), who was caught at ‘deep-mid-wicket’ by Jo Gardner, from Alana King 1/3. *Hollie Armitage 12*not out(12); *Bess Heath 23*not out(10) played an entertaining cameo hitting 3 ‘fours’ and 1 ’six’ and scoring what turned out to be ten winning runs from the last 2 balls.*Australia’s Phoebe Litchfield 38 runs (from 27 balls) top-scored for ‘Superchargers.’ *Best Rockets’ bowler was Alexa Stonehouse 1/10, whom commentators ‘would liked to have seen more (use) of.’

TR-W *Skipper Natalie ‘Nat’ Sciver-Brunt [*Bess Heath keeping wicket for Superchargers] *International players Harmanpreet Kaur (India), Alana King (Australia) & Lizelle Lee (ex Rep. South Africa) *With Natalie Sciver-Brunt (England); Bryony Smith & Kirstie Gordon (England ‘A’) & Linsey Smith, Katherine Sciver-Brunt & Fran Wilson (ex England) *Also, Alexa Stonehouse (England u-19’s) *After 25 balls ‘Power-play,’ Rockets were 33/0 (vs 24/1.) *Lizelle Lee 16(16) was caught ‘against the spin’ at ‘deep mid-wicket’ by Lucy Higham, from Georgia Wareham. *’Strategic-time-out’ was called after 55 balls with ‘Rockets’ on 79/1 *Bryony Smith 70(44) who hit 3 ‘sixes’ and 9 ‘fours,’ wet for a carbon-copy dismissal, also caught by Lucy Higham at ‘mid-wicket,’ from Georgia Wareham (2/24.) *Disaster struck firstly when Nat Sciver-Brunt 4(9) ‘played-on’ from Lucy Higham; followed by Fran Wilson who was skittled ‘middle-and-off’ for a 2nd ball ‘duck.’ *Jo Gardner 1(4) lost her off-stump to Linsey Smith (2/17.) Having said that ‘Superchargers’ ‘needed to get some discipline back,’ ‘commentator’s curse’ struck when three balls later, Harmanpreet Kaur 11(12) ’a quality batter who was dangerous’ was bowled by Linsey Smith: a ‘huge’ wicket. *Commentators became animated when after a change of ends, when Naomi Dattani 1(3) lost her middle-stump to Lucy Higham (3/29); with 28 runs needed from 9 balls remaining. *Katherine Sciver-Brunt 15*not out(6), showed spirited resistance, hitting ‘four’ & ’six’ from the last 2 balls, matching Bess Heath’s earlier knock, closing 9 runs short. *Rockets best batter was Bryony Smith 70(44), who hit top score. ‘Superchargers’’ best best bowler was Lucy Higham (3/29.)

Match summary Internationals Phoebe Litchfield 38 runs (from 27 balls) top-scored for ‘Superchargers;’ with Jemimah Rodrigues close behind on 33 from 32 balls. Bess Heath’s entertaining cameo included 3 ‘fours’ and 1 ’six:’ scoring ten runs from the last 2 balls. Rockets openers Lizelle Lee and Bryony Smith first-wicket partnership banked 61 runs. Once another 31 runs were added for ‘Rockets” second wicket, commentators curse struck as the match was though to be ‘dead and buried,’ on 92/1 with 9 wickets in hand. ‘Superchargers’ ‘found their way back into the game’ when ‘Superchargers” spinners bowlers took 5 (gaffed elsewhere as ‘all 7’) wickets with 15 balls (balls 78-91 plus ‘extras.’) Commentators were adamant that ‘Rockets’ had been ‘cruising home,’ until they ‘threw the match away:’ left stranded 9 runs short. Receiving her POTM Meerkat Match Hero I from Charles Dagnall for her match-winning ‘3-fer,’ Lucy Higham (3/29) said that was the first time she’d been awarded a cap-and-medal; adding that she’d been ‘pretty nervous,’ but felt ‘proud’ and was ‘chuffed-to-bits.’

Match result: Northern Superchargers Women 134/4 beat Trent Rockets Women: 125/7 by 9 runs

*Superchargers’ batting: 134/4: (100 balls @1.3 runs-per-ball); Phoebe Litchfield 38(27), Jemimah Rodrigues 33(32), Bess Heath 23*not out(10), Georgia Wareham 13(15), Hollie Armitage 12*not out(12); *Rockets’ bowling: Alexa Stonehouse 1/10, Kirstie Gordon 1/25, Naomi Dattani 1/35, Alana King 1/35; Fow 1-15, 2-68, 3-91, 4-103.

*Rockets’ batting: 125/7 (target 135 from 100 balls@1.2 r-p-b) Bryony Smith 70(44), Lizelle Lee 16(16), Katherine Sciver-Brunt 15*not out(6), Harmanpreet Kaur 11(12); *Superchargers’ bowling: Lucy Higham 3/29, Georgia Wareham 2/24, Linsey Smith 2/17; Fow 1-61, 2-92, 3-102, 4-102, 5-106, 6-107, 7-107.

*Scorecard courtesy of BBC Sport @URL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000728

*Match highlights (5m50s) courtesy of Sky Sports @URL https://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/cricket/12936727/highlights-trent-rockets-collapse-as-northern-superchargers-prevail-in-womens-hundred

Match result: ‘Match abandoned without a ball bowled’ courtesy of BBC Sport @URL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000723

The Hundred Women 2023 Latest standings @URL https://www.thehundred.com/standings