Setting the scene, commentators Michael McCann (Sports journalist) and Melinda ‘Mel’ Farrell (journalist & ex Australia women) explained that neither team was ’in qualifying contention.’ Both teams lacked a sufficient number of points needed to go beyond the group stage. As a consequence they were knocked-out of the competiton and playing for pride. Three Storm batters (Sophia Smale, Emma Corney & Sophie Luff) made ‘fifty.’ ‘Thunder’ made a disastrous start to their innings, losing three wickets cheaply. ‘Thunder’s’ skipper Ellie Threlkeld (pictured) with a career-best 107*not outmounted a recovery with Naomi Dattani that banked banked 177 runs. Together with their partnership assured ‘Thunder’ of their winning position from their last game-of-the-season. Video highlights courtesy of ECB (NV Play) & Lancs CricketTV (please see below.) Weather at Old Trafford was mainly overcast.

‘Storm’s innings’ *Skipper Sophie Luff [*Ellie Threlkeld keeping wicket for ’Thunder’] Debutante Izzy Patel. Returner Mollie Robbins. *Without Heather Knight, Danielle Gibson & Lauren Filer (England call-up) *After 10 overs Power-play, ‘Storm’ were 53/0 *Emma Corney 53(64) was caught at ‘long-on’ by Tara Norris on-the-turn, from Olivia Bell *After 25 overs, ’Storm’ were 125/1 *Fran Wilson 24(28) was bowled through-the-gate bails sent flying, by Olivia Bell *Sophia Smale 56(82) was caught-and-bowled ‘middle-and-off-stump,’ by Olivia Bell (3/30) *Six balls later, Niamh Holland 0(2) was bowled ‘middle-and-off-stump,’ by Liberty ‘Libby’ Heap. *Natasha Wraith 8(11) was bowled bowled, ‘middle-and-off-stump’ by Libby Heap. *Katie Jones 16(14) mis-timed hook to ‘backward-square,’ caught by Danielle Collins from Libby Heap (3/39) *Chloe Skelton 26*not out(35) & Izzy Patel 2*not out(3) *Sophie Luff played a skipper’s innings, chalking-up 50 during the penultimate over. *Skipper Luff 54(65), was caught by Naomi Dattani, bowled by Tara Norris (1/37) during ‘Storm’s’ final over. *Best ‘Storm’ batters were Sophia Smale 56(82); Sophie Luff 54(65); & Emma Corney 53(64.) *Best ‘Thunder’ bowlers were Olivia Bell 3/30 & Liberty ‘Libby’ Heap 3/39.

‘Thunder’s’ innings *Skipper Ellie Threlkeld [*Katie Jones keeping wicket for ‘Storm’] With internationals Tara Norris (US) & Laura Delany (Republic of Ireland) & Olivia Bell (Scotland); without Deandre Dottin (WIndies Caribbean League.) *Without Emma Lamb, Kate Cross, or Mahika Gaur (England call-up) *Disaster when three wickets fell for 17 runs. *Firstly, during ‘Thunder’s’ 1st over,’ Liberty ‘Libby’ Heap 0(4) was run-out’ by Fran Wilson’s throw to Katie Jones, receiving at the striker’s end for a ‘4th ball-duck.’ *15 balls later, Seren Smale 3(11) went plumb ‘leg-before’ to Sophia Smale. *Thirdly, the 8th-over, Fi Morris was caught-and-bowled by Sophia Smale *After 10 overs Power-play, ‘Thunder’ were 23/3 (vs 53/0) *After 25 overs, ‘Thunder’ were 115/3 (vs 125/1) *Record partnership for ‘Thunder’s’ 4th wicket between skipper Ellie Threlkeld and Naomi Dattani banked 177 runs. *Naomi Dattani 82(114) was caught-and-bowled with a one-handed dive, from Niamh Holland *Laura Delany went plumb ‘leg-before’ to Niamh Holland (2/35.) *Thunder’s best batter Ellie Threlkeld was 107*not out (115); *Best Storm bowlers were Sophia Smale 2/33, Niamh Holland 2/34.

Match summary: Batting first, three Storm batters scored ‘fifty (Sophia Smale, Emma Corney & Sophie Luff.) Two ‘Thunder’ bowlers took 3-fers (Olivia Bell & Libby Heap.) Reported elsewhere that Olivia Bell has a 25 wickets haul from eight ‘Thunder’ matches. Disaster struck Thunder’s final innings of the season when three wickets fell for 17 runs (Libby Heap, Seren Smale & Fi Morris.) Record 4th wicket partnership between skipper Ellie Threlkeld and Naomi Dattani banked 177 runs to get ‘Thunder’ into a winning position. Ellie Threlkeld played a skipper’s innings chalking-up her career-best ‘class-A’ century, for a ‘clinical’ finish to the season. Thunder (26 points) finished their season at Old Trafford on a ‘high,’ beating ‘Storm’ by a comfortable margin. ‘Storm’ finished their group stage in 8th place (16 points), earning their inaugural wooden spoon.

Match result: North West Thunder 254/5 beat Western Storm 250/7 by five wickets with 20 balls remaining

* ‘Storm’s’ batting 250/7: (50/50 overs @ 5.0 runs-per-over) Sophia Smale 56(82), Sophie Luff 54(65), Emma Corney 53(64), Fran Wilson 24(28); ‘Thunder’s’ bowling: Olivia Bell 3/30, Libby Heap 3/39, Tara Norris 1/37; Fow: 1-98, 2-138, 3-145, 4-150, 5-160, 6-199, 7-249.

* ‘Thunder’s’ batting 254/5: (46.4/50 overs @ 5.4 runs-per-over) Ellie Threlkeld 107*not out(115), Naomi Dattani 82(114), Laura Delany 22(15), Danielle Collins 12*not out(13), Fi Morris 11(12); ‘Storm’s’ bowling: Sophia Smale 2/33, Niamh Holland 2/34; Fow: 1-1, 2-3, 3-17, 4-194, 5-230.

*Scorecard courtesy of ECB @URL https://www.ecb.co.uk/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy/matches/35833#scorecard

*Video highlights, via NV Play @URL https://www.ecb.co.uk/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy/matches/35833#videos

*Match free-to-air courtesy of ‘Lancs Cricket TV’ for North West Thunder (believed to be via NV Play) on ‘YouTube’ Livestream [starting from 0m38sm/6h53m10s] @URL https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHKFiBme5ew

Before the match, Head Coach Dani Hazell had told reporters she had optimism to ‘make something happen’ for ‘Diamonds’ to reach the up-coming Eliminator match to defend last year’s title. Since then, ‘Diamonds’ lost three matches in-a-row, narrowing their title defence aspirations down to ‘wafer-thin.’ Star batter Lauren Winfield-Hill (pictured) top-scored for ‘Diamonds’ hitting 83 runs (from 92 balls) and staged a century opening-partnership with Dutch international Sterre Kalis 45(from 47.) By comparison, ’Storm’ look set to receive their inaugural ‘wooden spoon.’ One highlight was skipper Sophie Luff hitting her season’s best 87(from 105), with two key partnerships that gave confidence to batters Natasha Wraith and Fran Wilson who both made ‘fifty.’  Video highlights courtesy of ECB (NV Play) & Western Storm (please see below) Weather at Taunton improved, after early rain shortened the match to 43 overs per side.

Diamonds innings *Skipper Hollie Armitage [*Natasha Wraith keeping wicket for Storm;] *Debutante Sophia Turner, on-loan from North West Thunder *International player Sterre Kalis (NL) *Without Bess Heath (England call-up) *After 10-overs ‘Power-play’ ‘Diamonds’ were 50 without loss. *Century opening partnership between Sterre Kalis and Lauren Winfield-Hill banked 101 runs. *Sterre Kalis 45(47) was ‘run out’ at the non-striker’s end by Mollie Robbins *By mid-way, ‘Diamonds’ were 145/1. *After hitting Chloe Skelton for ‘six,’ Hollie Armitage 45(48) went aerial, caught ‘in the deep’ by Alex Griffiths, from Mollie Robbins. *Lauren Winfield-Hill 83(92) who hit ten ‘fours,’ was caught at ‘cover’ by Fran Wilson, from Mollie Robbins *93 runs were added by Leah Dobson (who hit Niamh Holland 1st ball for ’six’): 68 not out (50); partnered by *Emma Marlow who was 23*not out (21.) *Best ‘Diamonds batter was Lauren Winfield-Hill 83(92) *Only one Storm bowler was successful , Mollie Robbins (2/41.)

Storm innings *Skipper Sophie Luff [*Lauren Winfield-Hill keeping wicket for Diamonds] *With Mollie Robbins, who made her ’Storm’ debut in 2021, but played no matches last year. *Without Heather Knight or Danielle Gibson (England call-up) *Alex Griffiths went ‘leg-before’ to Lizzie Scott’s in-swing. *Emma Corney 10(17) caught Lauren Winfield-Hill bowled Sophia Turner (1/31) *After 10-overs ‘Power-play’ ‘Storm’ were 42/2 (vs 50/0) *Century 3rd wicket partnership between Sophie Luff and Fran Wilson added 107 runs *Fran Wilson 57(56) ‘reverse-swept’ to Rebecca Duckworth from Hollie Armitage (1/52) *By mid-way, ‘Storm’ were 129/3 (vs 145/1) *Niamh Holland 5(5) was bowled ‘through the gate’ by Katie Levick. *6th wicket stand of 69 runs between Sophie Luff & Natasha Wraith. *Sophie Luff 87(105) swung around and was stumped Lauren Winfield-Hill from Katie Levick (2/61) *Natasha Wraith 61 (44) was caught by Sterre Kalis, from Lizzie Scott (2/30) *Sophia Smale 5 was ‘run out’ by Lizzie Scott’s direct hit *Chloe Skelton was 9*not out (11); Nicole Harvey was 1*not out (3.) *Top scorer Sophie Luff 87(105.) Best ‘Diamonds’ bowler was Lizzie Scott (2/30.)

Match summary: Diamonds took to the field having lost one more match than Storm, but with two more wins placing them higher-up the group-stage table. With seven overs-per-side docked for ‘early morning’ rain, both sides scored around one-run-per-ball despite a drying outfield. As mentioned abive, Star batter Lauren Winfield-Hill top-scored for ‘Diamonds’ hitting 83 runs (from 92 balls); staged a century opening-partnership with Dutch international Sterre Kalis 45(from 47.) Further down the scorecard, Leah Dobson, hit an unbeaten ‘fifty,’ partnered by Emma Marlow. Together, the pair added another 93 for ‘Diamonds,’ chalking-up a record final score for 43 overs in the 50 overs competition. Storm’s skipper Sophie Luff eplied with two key partnerships with batters both scoring ‘fifty.’ Firstly, a century partnership with former England player Fran Wilson added 107 runs. Secondly, batting with keeper Natasha Wraith added another 63 runs. Although Sophie Luff hit top-score of the match with a season’s best 87(from 105) ‘Storm’ closed agonisingly 31 runs short of their run-chase. With two group-stage matches remaining (at time of writing) 5th-placed Diamonds’ (25 points) have an outside chance to qualify beyond the group stage. Without anyn such pressure, ‘Storm’ are playing for their own pride.

Match result: Northern Diamonds 281/3 (43 overs) beat Western Storm 250/7 (43 overs), by 31 runs

*Diamonds batting: 281/3 (@6.5 runs-per-over from 43/43 overs) Lauren Winfield-Hill 83(92), Leah Dobson 68*not out (50), Hollie Armitage 45(48), Sterre Kalis 45(47), Emma Marlow 23*not out (21); *Storm  bowling: Mollie Robbins 2/41; Fow 1-101, 2-177, 3-188.

*Storm batting: 250/7 (@5.8 r-p-o from 43/43 overs)Sophie Luff 87(105), Natasha Wraith 61(44), Fran Wilson 57(56), Emma Corney 10(17); *Diamonds bowling Lizzie Scott 2/30, Katie Levick 2/61 ,Sophia Turner 1/31, Hollie Armitage 1/52; Fow 1-8, 2-17, 3-124, 4-135, 5-204, 6-239, 7-241.

*Scorecard courtesy of ECB @URL https://www.ecb.co.uk/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy/matches/35819#scorecard

*Video highlights, courtesy of ECB (NV Play) & Western Storm @URL https://westernstorm.co.uk/fixtures-results/#vd09d4395-3bb6-4239-a212-9a1cd566d175

*No livestream video commentary was available at time of writing

Sunrisers made another ‘impressive performance,’ beating a depleted Storm side, without England players on call-up. Sunrisers chalked-up their third ever win at 50-overs under their ex-Scots coach; and their first win under England u19s skipper Grace Scrivens’s captaincy. 4-out-of-five of ‘Storm’s’ top-order batters faced ‘much pressure,’ from ‘Sunrisers” strike bowlers Kate Coppack (3/26) and Jodi Grewcock (3/24): who each took 3-fers including two pairs of ‘Storm’ wickets during the same over. ‘Storm’ were bowled-out below the 150-mark. By comparison, although no top-order batter made ‘fifty,’ all ‘Sunrisers’ made double-figures. Lower down the order, Mady Villiers (No.5) made a match-winning 29 from 24 balls with three batters scoring next-best, each with 24. Previously, ‘Storm’ bagged a 6-run win (on July 24th.) Players, officials and commentator (believed to be Kevin P Hand of BBC Sport) did well to compete against the droning sound of light-aircraft heard overhead throughout the entire match. Video highlights courtesy of ECB and NV Play (please see below) Evidently excellent flying weather at Radlett, 18-20C.

‘Storm’s’ innings *Skipper Sophie Luff [*Amara Carr keeping wicket for ‘Sunrisers’] *Debutante Gemma Lane. *Depleted without England call-ups (Heather Knight & Danielle Gibson.) *Alex Griffiths 1(4) was caught by Jodi Grewcock from Eva Gray (1/18.) *Seven balls later, skipper Sophie Luff 1(6) was ’splattered’ between ‘top-of-middle-and-off’ (stumps) by Kate Coppack *Two wickets fell during Kate Coppacks’s unplayable 2nd over, chalking-up a double-wicket-maiden. *Firstly, Fran Wilson 5(11) ‘feather-edged’ to keeper Amara Carr, from Kate Coppack. *Three balls later, Niamh Holland 0(3) snicked to keeper Amara Carr, for a 3rd ball ‘duck’ from Kate Coppack (3/26.) *After 10-overs power play ‘Storm’ were 37/4. *Emma Corney and Natasha Wraith mounted a 5th wicket recovery. *Natasha Wraith 18(18), steepled a catch to Jo Gardner, diving forward from the ‘deep,’ from Mady Villiers. *By mid-way (25 overs) ’Storm’ recovered to 67/5. *Two wickets fell during Jodi Grewcock’s 2nd over, said to be a ‘hammer-blow’ (to recovery.) *Firstly Sophia Smale 11(55) went ‘leg-before’ to Jodi Grewcock’s ‘blockhole’ delivery, said to be ’misjudgement.’ *Secondly Emma Corney 34(82), was clean-bowled ‘top-of-middle-and-off’ from ‘perfect length’ and ‘flight’ from Jodi Grewcock. *Chloe Skelton 4(15) who hit one ‘four,’ missed a second ‘big swing’ across-the-line, and was bowled by Mady Villiers 2/31. *Nicole Harvey 25(37) steepled a catch to Eva Gray, from Grace Scrivens 1/19. *Mollie Robbins 10(32) was caught at ‘cover’ by Grace Scrivens from Jodi Grewcock 3/24. *Gemma Lane 5*not out. *’Storm’s’ best batter was Emma Corney 34(82) *’Sunrisers’’ best bowler was Jodi Grewcock 3/24.

‘Sunrisers’’ innings *Debutante skipper (replacing Dane v.Niekerk) Grace Scrivens (also England u-19’s skipper.) [*Natasha Wraith keeping wicket for ‘Storm’] *Debutante Ariana Dowse; without Abtaha Maqsood (Scotland.) *Ariana Dowse 19(20), went ‘leg-before’ to Mollie Robbins 2/23. *Grace Scrivens 12(26), lobbed a ‘dolly,’ caught by Nicole Harvey, from Sophia Smale 1/29‘. *After 10-overs power play ‘Sunrisers’ were level-pegging but with 3 wickets advantage 38/1(vs 37/4) *Jodi Grewcock 24(53) went ‘leg-before’ to a ‘full-delivery’ from Chloe Skelton 1/42; who came ‘around-the-wicket’ to the left-hander. *By mid-way (25 overs) ’Sunrisers’ had edged ahead by thirty runs 97/4 (vs 67/5) *Amara Carr 24(34), who’d ‘run-the-first-run-too-slowly,’ was ‘run out’ by Sophia Smale, with keeper Natasha Wraith receiving at the striker’s end. *Mady Villiers 29(24) played a match-winning innings for an ‘early finish,’ until caught by Sophia Smale, from Alex Griffiths 1/16, *Eva Gray 6(8) was caught at ‘deep-square’ by Alex Griffiths, from Mollie Robbins 2/23 *Without any run pressure, Jo Gardner 24*not out (38) finished ‘with a flourish;’ Amu Surenkumar 0*not out *’Sunrisers’’ best batter was Mady Villiers 29(24); ‘Storm’s’ best bowler was Mollie Robbins 2/23.

Match summary: ‘Storm’ lost 4-out of their first five batters to single-figure scores, reducing their ‘Power-play’ score to 37/4 (after 10 overs.) ‘Sunrisers’ bowlers Kate Coppack (3/26) and Jodi Grewcock (3/24) were pick-of-the-bowlers, each taking ‘3-fers.’ When a second pair of ‘Storm’ wickets fell during Jodi Grewcock’s 2nd over, commentator mentioned a ‘hammer-blow’ to ‘rebuilding’ (‘Storm’s’ innings.) Despite Nicole Harvey’s 25-run cameo, Storm’s were bowled-out prematurely, with almost five overs to spare. As mentioned above, although no ‘Sunrisers’ batter made ‘fifty,’ all reached double-figures, making light work of their run chase. As mentioned above, Mady Villiers scored a match-winning 29 from 24 balls (faster than one-run-per-ball); with Jodi Grewcock, Amara Carr & Jo Gardner jointly next best with 24. ‘Sunrisers’ placed 7th (20 points.) Following their unexpected defeat, ‘Storm’ are placed 8th, at risk of receiving their inauguaral wooden spoon.

Match result: Sunrisers 144/6 (target 144 from 50 overs) beat Western Storm 143/10 by four wickets (with 97 balls to spare)

‘Storm’s’ batting 143/10 (45.1/50 overs @ 3.1 runs-per-over); Emma Corney 34(82), Nicole Harvey 25(37), Natasha Wraith 18(18), Sophia Smale 11(55), Mollie Robbins 10(32); ‘Sunrisers’’ bowling: Jodi Grewcock 3/24, Kate Coppack 3/26, Mady Villiers 2/31, Eva Gray 1/18, Grace Scrivens 1/19; Fow 1-3, 2-5, 3-18, 4-18, 5-46, 6-88, 7-89, 8-107, 9-131, 10-143.

‘Sunrisers’’ batting 144/6 (33.5/50 overs @ 4.2 runs-per-over); Mady Villiers 29(24) Amara Carr 24(34), Jo Gardner 24*not out (38), Jodi Grewcock 24(53), Ariana Dowse 19(20), Grace Scrivens 12(26); ‘Storm’s’ bowling: Mollie Robbins 2/23, Alex Griffiths 1/16, Sophia Smale 1/29, Chloe Skelton 1/42; Fow 1-33, 2-38, 3-81, 4-82, 5-130, 6-148.

Scorecard courtesy of ECB @URL https://www.ecb.co.uk/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy/matches/35806#scorecard

Video highlights, via NV Play @URL https://www.ecb.co.uk/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy/matches/35806#videos

Match free-to-air courtesy of Sunrisers (believed to be via NV Play) on ‘YouTube’ Livestream [starting from 11m12s/5h27m28s] @URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E0j0PChgPIs

‘Rain-shortened’ match, with 22 overs-per-innings, branded as the ‘Visit Cayman Islands Cheltenham Cricket Festival;’ as part of the 51st Cheltenham festival. Batting first, Storm’s top-scorer Fran Wilson (pictured) 56 runs (from 52 balls) was the only batter to score ‘fifty’ and took an ‘excellent’ catch. As before, both sides took each other ‘to the brink,’ with the match result decided by the final ball. Sunrisers fell agonisingly short by six runs as tail-end batter Flo Miller was stumped in-the-act of sweeping, by stand-in keeper Katie Jones. At the same time, Storm’s spinner Sophia Smale chalked-up a ‘4-fer’ (4/34) from the final match ball. Commentators were Ed ‘Cricket’ Seabourne (Sports journalist), Claire B Jenkins (Livestream cricket) and Carol Camino on debut (with support from Glos cricket partner HerGameToo.) Video highlights via ECB online (NV-Play, James Healy on camera) please see below. Slow outfield. A rain-affected match, weather at Cheltenham was continuously overcast with grey clouds and occasional spots of rain.

Storm’s innings *Skipper Sophie Luff, without Heather Knight [Amara Carr keeping wicket for Sunrisers] With England’s Danielle ‘Dani’ Gibson & Lauren Filer. Katie Jones second appearance, but making her debut ‘as keeper,’ without Natasha Wraith. Also, without international player Piepa Cleary (Australia WBBL) or Mollie Robbins (Academy) *Before the match Dani Gibson received her 50th Storm cap, following ‘in the steps of’ Sophie Luff (herself as presenter) & Fran Wilson. *Having hit Eva Gray for ‘four,’ Dani Gibson 12(9) was bowled ‘off-stump’ next ball, said to be a ‘huge wicket.’ *After 4 overs Power-play Storm were 19/1 & 73/1 by mid-way (11 overs.) *Main batting partnership between Fran Wilson, said to ‘move (about) all-over-her-crease’ and Alex Griffiths. *Together the pair banked 91 runs for Storm’s 2nd wicket. *Fran Wilson 56(52) ‘scooped’ a catch straight to Kate Coppack from Amu Surenkumar. *14 balls later Alex Griffiths 46(47) was caught aerial leg-side, by Eva Gray arriving from mid-wicket, also from Amu Surenkumar (2/37.) *Returner Niamh Holland was 28*not out(17) *Storm’s best batter was Fran Wilson 56(52) who was the only Storm batter to hit ‘six.’ *Sunrisers’ best bowler was Amu Surenkumar 2/37. *Abtaha Maqsood bowled one over. *Dane vNiekerk didn’t bowl.

Sunrisers’ innings *Skipper & International player Dane van Niekerk (Republic of South Africa),  with Abtaha Maqsood (Scotland) & Grace Scrivens (England ‘A’ skipper); without Alice ‘Lissy’ MacLeod [as noted above, Katie Jones was keeping wicket for Storm] *Commentators lauded Storms’ pace-attack, said to be ‘one of the quickest.’ *Dani Gibson, Lauren Filer and Phoebe Graham – Graham gaffed as ‘Trudy,’ while commentators were distracted by an ‘angry wasp.’ *Sunrisers’ Cordelia Griffith 3(7) was short-lived, caught ‘two-handed’ by Fran Wilson at ‘backward-point’ (as mentioned above.) *That brought two left-handers to the crease, batting briefly under ‘a few drops of rain.’ *After 4 overs Power-play Sunrisers were 19/1 (vs 24/1).*Next ball, Jodi Grewcock 1(4) was bowled ‘under her bat,’ by Sophia Smale’s spin, her off-stump tilted-back. *Skipper v.Niekerk 26(22), who had been ’short on runs,’ added 51 runs with Mady Villiers, for Sunrisers’ third wicket. *By mid-way (11 overs) Sunrisers were 66/2 (vs 73/1.) *Dane v.Niekerk 26(22) was caught-and-bowled by Chloe Skelton.*Said to be a ‘game-changing moment as v.Niekerk made her slow-exit in a state of denial. *10 balls later, Grace Scrivens 39(45) came-down-the-wicket to Chloe Skelton and was caught behind by Katie Jones (gaffed as stumped,’ albeit from a difficult angle.) *Taking two wickets with consecutive balls, Sophia Smale had Eva Gray 27(19) caught by Danielle Gibson; ‘running and sliding’ from deep-mid-wicket. *Next ball, Amara Carr went ‘leg before’ for a ‘golden duck,’ with ‘ball ‘smashing into pads’ below the ‘knee-roll.’ *Commentator’s curse struck with 3 overs remaining. *Earlier gaffed as ‘Danni,’ Mady Villiers 22(16) was urged ‘to stay in’ as ‘key’ (to Sunrisers innings); but was immediately caught by Sophia Smale. *Flo Miller ‘successfully negotiated’ Chloe Skelton’s (3/36) ‘hat-trick’ ball during her ‘big over.’ *Finally, needing ’six’ runs to tie the match, Flo Miller 16(13) came-down-the-wicket to Sophia Smale (4/34) but was stumped by Katie Jones. *Amu Surenkumar remained 10*not out(7) *Sunrisers’ best batter was Grace Scrivens 39(45) with skipper v.Niekerk & Eva Gray both scoring ‘sixes.’ Sunrisers’ best batter was Grace Scrivens 39(45); Storms best bowler was Sophia Smale 4/34.

Match summary ‘Rain-shortened’ basement battle with both sides taking each other ‘to the brink,’ augmented by amusing commentators’ gaffs. As mentioned above, Storm’s ex-England veteran Fran Wilson was the only batter to score ‘fifty’ and took an ‘excellent’ catch. Sunrisers fell ‘agonisingly short’ needing six runs to tie the match from their last ball. Storm’s spinner Sophia Smale chalked-up a ‘4-fer’ from the final match ball. Although Storms’ second win lifts them from last place, neither side has any expectation to finish in the top-three qualifying places that decide which teams make progress beyond the group stage.

Match result: Western Storm Women 165/3  beat Sunrisers Women 159/8 by 6 runs (22 overs)

* Storm batting:165/3 (@7.5 runs-per-over from 22/50 overs); Alex Griffiths 46(47), Fran Wilson 56(52), Niamh Holland 28*not out(17), Danielle Gibson 12(9); *Sunrisers’ bowling: Amu Surenkumar 2/37, Eva Gray 1/20; Fow 1-22, 2-113, 3-133.

* Sunrisers’ batting:159/8 (@7.2 r-p-o from 22/50 overs; target 166 from 22 overs); Grace Scrivens 39(45), Eva Gray 27(19), Dane van Niekerk 26(22), Mady Villiers 22(16), Flo Miller 16(13), Amu Surenkumar 10*not out(7); *Storm’s bowling: Sophia Smale 4/34, Chloe Skelton 3/36, Danielle Gibson 1/38; Fow 1-10, 2-19, 3-70, 4-81, 5-121, 6-121, 7-131, 8-159.

* Scorecard with video highlights, courtesy of ECB (via NV-Play) via Glos Cricket for Western Storm on YouTube at URL: https://live.nvplay.com/ecb/?tab=m_scorecard#md0fa1c65-3943-481c-b696-d4f1e61e55e8 & BBC Sport @URL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000567

*Match free-to-air (starting from 05m30/03h13m12s) courtesy of Glos Cricket (via NV Play) <sound loss 1h11m17s-1h37m00> via YouTube at URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbbGVIdqs3w

Vipers’ & England’s Maia Bouchier (pictured) made top-score 71 (from 72 balls); partnered by skipper Georgia Adams. Together the pair added 95 runs for Vipers’ second wicket. Both batters made ‘fifty’ in blustery conditions interrupted for an hour, by rain. Although Vipers reportedly ‘came out on top,’ Storm’s Emma Corney had earlier hit her career-best 69 runs. Seeking their first win since May, previously, Vipers had lost 50-overs matches to Sparks and Sunrisers and tied with Thunder. Video highlights via ECB online (NV-Play); & full match without commentary (NV-Play): please see below.

Storm’s Innings *Skipper Sophie Luff *[Vipers keeper Rhianna Southby] *International player Piepa Cleary (Australian Womens’ Big Bash League) *With Nicole Harvey. *Without Dani Gibson & Heather Knight or Lauren Filer (Ashes duty.) *Storm were put in to bat. *After 9 overs Power-play, Storm were 24/0 (vs 39/0) *During the 13th over, Alex Griffiths 7(38) lobbed a ‘dolly’ to Maia Bouchier at ‘mid-on,’ from Alice Monaghan *By mid-way (24/48 overs) Storm were 88/1.  *Three overs later, skipper Sophie Luff 24(46) lobbed a ‘dolly’ to Alice Monaghan who caught at ‘mid-on,’ from Georgia Adams. *Emma Corney 69(100) who batted her season’s-best, steepled down the wicket to Georgia Adams caught deep of ‘mid-on,’ from spinner Linsey Smith. *Rain interrupted play during the 39th over, with Storm 167/3. *Resuming one hour later, Fran Wilson 49(47) went aerial one run short of ‘fifty,’ but was caught at ‘mid-off’ by Georgia Adams, from Linsey Smith. *During the 48th over, Niamh Holland 44(43) stood back to hit a leg-side ball from Georgia Adams to the off-side, but was caught at ‘square’ by Mary Taylor. Innings closed after 48 overs. *Emma Corney 69(100) made top-score for Storm. *Vipers’ best bowlers were Linsey Smith 2/36, & Georgia Adams 2/50.

Vipers’ Innings *Skipper Georgia Adams *[Storm keeper Natasha Wraith] *International player Maitlan Brown (WBBL); *With Maia Bouchier, but without England Ashes players Lauren Bell, Charlie Dean or Danni Wyatt; *With Megan Sturge replacing Ava Lee. *Match was reduced to 48 overs per innings. *After 9 overs Power-play, Vipers were 39/0. *Finding Phoebe Graham unplayable, Ella McCaughan 10(27) was caught at ‘square’ by Chloe Skelton. *By mid-way (24/48 overs) Vipers were 126/1. *Maia Bouchier 71 (72) was easily caught & bowled, dead centre, by Alex Griffiths. *Batting partnership with skipper Georgia Adams banked 95 runs for Vipers’ 2nd wicket. *Georgia Adams 59 (66), caught at ‘deep-square’ by Fran Wilson, from Piepa Cleary. *Emily Windsor 21(35), went aerial, was caught ‘backward-of-square’ by Piepa Cleary, from Chloe Skelton. *Maitlan Brown 10(12) was caught ‘deep-of-mid-off’ by Sophie Luff from Piepa Cleary. *Left-hander Freya Kemp 47(36) lost her off-side bail, bowled by Alex Griffiths. *Finally, Alice Monaghan hit the winning ‘four,’ *Linsey Smith was 11*not out (12.) *Storm’s best bowlers were Alex Griffiths 2/35 & Piepa Cleary 2/45.

Match summary: Highlights of Storm’s innings were Emma Corney scoring her career-best 69; followed by 63 runs added by former England player Fran Wilson (49) partnered by Niamh Holland (44); with an hour’s interruption for rain in between. As mentioned above, Vipers’ match-winning scoring-rate was achieved firstly by Maia Bouchier scored (71) partnered by skipper Georgia Adams (59): together banking 95 runs. Secondly bowler-turned-batter Freya Kemp hit a rapid-fire 47. Finally, Alice Monaghan hit the winning ‘four.’ Fifth-placed Vipers chalked-up their first win since beating Sparks at Wormsley (May 1st.)  After nine rounds, Vipers have 17 points; Storm trailing on 10 points but with one game-in-hand. Western Storm match report @URL: https://westernstorm.co.uk/news/vipers-come-out-on-top-at-millfield/

Match result:  Southern Vipers Women 240/6 (revised DLS target 238 from 48 overs) beat Western Storm Women 230/5; by four wickets (Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method) with 26 balls remaining                                  

*Storm’s batting: 230/5 (@4.7 runs-per-over from 48/48 overs); Emma Corney 69(100), Fran Wilson 49(47), Niamh Holland 44(43), Sophie Luff 24(46), Piepa Cleary 14*not out (15); Vipers’ bowling: Linsey Smith 2/36, Georgia Adams 2/50, Alice Monaghan 1/31; Fow 1-43, 2-95, 3-131, 4-194, 5-227.

*Vipers’ batting: 240/6 (@5.4 r-p-o from 43.4/48 overs – target 238 from 48 overs); Maia Bouchier 71 (72), Georgia Adams 59 (66), Freya Kemp 47(36), Emily Windsor 21(35), Linsey Smith 11*not out (12), Ella McCaughan 10(27), Maitlan Brown 10(12); * Storm’s bowling: Alex Griffiths 2/35, Piepa Cleary 2/45, Phoebe Graham 1/45, Chloe Skelton 1/56; Fow 1-41, 2-136, 3-159, 4-175, 5-236.

Scorecard & statistics at URL https://live.nvplay.com/ecb/?tab=m_scorecard#cfe6ae2eb-42c0-419f-8c45-68f7f498cd51_m54dc8455-34b3-401b-b5be-11e03cbde064 & BBC Sport @URL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000560

Match free-to-air without commentary (from 09h05/07h26m01s) courtesy of Somerset Cricket (via NV Play) on YouTube at URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wHEiQ20__Og&t=3s

With both sides depleted by England Ashes call-up, acting skipper Marie Kelly stepped-up by scoring ‘fifty;’ staged a ‘run-out;’ and clean-bowled Storm skipper Luff’. Marie Kelly also took a vital ‘death over’ catch. Tight field-settings took the match down to wire, Blaze winning by 6 runs, for their sixth-win-in-a-row at 50 overs. Commentators: Charlie Taylor (for BBC radio Somerset) with Dr Jane Powell (President Yorks CCC) and Kath Wilkins (former player, Somerset Women.) Before the match, commentators pointed out that ‘3 quality players’ were missing from each side: and that might ‘balance things out.’ Match video via ECB online (NV-Play); BBC Sound (radio Somerset) and ‘YouTube’ (Livestream & highlights) courtesy of Glos cricket (for Western Storm) –  please see below. Weather at Bristol was sunny turning overcast, with an intermittent light westerly breeze 18C.

Blaze Innings *Acting skipper Marie Kelly [Storm keeper Natasha Wraith] with Internationals Nadine deKlerk & debutante Michaela Kirk (both Republic of South Africa); Kathryn & Sarah Bryce (both Scotland); without Tammy Beaumont, Natalie Sciver-Brunt, Sarah Glenn & Kirstie Gordon (All England Ashes duty.) *Just as Blaze were ‘looking to build a platform,’ opener Sarah Bryce 11(15) sliced to Fran Wilson (gaffed as Sophie Luff) and was caught ‘in the covers,’ bowled by Mollie Robbins. *With host commentors ‘calling for another wicket,’ Georgie Boyce 13(17) was obligingly caught at ‘silly-mid-off’ by Sophia Smale, from new recruit Piepa Cleary’s seam-bowling. *After 10 overs Power-play, Blaze 47/2. *Now facing ‘spin from each direction,’ Kathryn Bryce 20(24) ‘feather-edged’ a catch to keeper, from bowler Chloe Skelton (1/56.) *Blaze were 81/2 after 16.4 overs (100 balls); reaching 123/3 by mid-way (25 overs.) *’Big moment’ after Blaze lost 3 wickets over 6 overs, (when 130/3 became 149/6.) *Acting skipper Marie Kelly 54(74) top-edged skyward, caught by Mollie Robbins diving-forward ‘short of fine-leg,’ from Nicole Harvey’s ‘full toss’ (‘bump-ball’ ruled-out.) *Nadine de Klerk 1(7) played ‘forward-defensive,’ but lost her off-stump to Nicole Harvey, who ‘got one to turn.’ *Gaffed as ‘very important’ (batter), Michaela Kirk 40(49) promptly went ‘leg before’ to Nicole Harvey. *Michaela Kirk missing a sweeping ’square-cut:’ said to mark ‘a major moment’ of the game. *Teresa Graves & Sophie Munro scampered eight overs of ‘1’s & ‘2’s’ with no ‘fours.’ *Teresa Graves 41(50) sliced an ‘easy’ catch to Fran Wilson collecting ‘in-the-covers,’ bowled by Piepa Cleary. *Sophie Munro 41(50) launched a vertical ‘steepler,’ caught by Niamh Holland at ‘mid-on,’ also from bowler Piepa Cleary (3/43.) *Alex Griffiths’ (2/25) ‘death’ over bagged 2 wickets. *Ella Claridge 2(3) was caught at ‘extra cover’ by Piepa Cleary; *Finally, Lucy Higham 7(8) ramped into her wicket with great panache, leaving Grace Ballinger 2*‘not out’(3) *Blaze ‘all-out,’ with one ball remaining. *Storm’s Nicole Harvey was stand-out bowler (bagging Kelly, deKlerk & Kirk); with new recruit Piepa Clearly keeping Storm in contention (bagging Boyce, Graves & Munro.) *Relatively few ‘fours’ were scored beyond Blaze’s 20th over. *Sophie Munro and Teresa Graves’ 7th wicket partnership added 74: ‘spirited resistance’ that lifted Blaze’s total to 245. In summary, Blaze’s aspirations for six-wins-in-a-row were dented when Nicole Harvey took 3 ‘big name’ wickets, sending both South African Internationals back to the ‘dug-out.’ *Piepa Cleary (WBBL) also took three Blaze wickets.

Storm’s Innings *Skipper Sophie Luff *[Blaze keeper Sarah Bryce] *International player & same-day debutante Piepa Cleary (W.Australian Womens’ Big Bash League) said to have ‘just signed today.’ *Without Lauren Filer, Dani Gibson & England skipper Heather Knight (Ashes duty.) Orla Prendergast returned to ROI. *Amusing moment between overs when Nadine deKlerk lobbed the ball into Umpire’s hat (32/0.) *After 10 overs Power-play, Storm were trailing 34/0 (vs 47/2) but with 2 wickets advantage: 63/0 (vs 81/2) after 16.4 overs (100 balls.) *Emma Corney 29(40) was ‘run out’ at the non-striker’s end when bowler Marie Kelly deflected a dropped return-catch from Alex Griffiths onto non-striker’s stumps. *Sophie Luff*8(19) was clean-bowled, hitting across the line of a dead-straight ball from Marie Kelly. *By mid-way (25 overs) Storm were 99/2 (vs 123/3.) *Griffiths & Wilson 3rd wicket partnership added 59 runs.*Fran Wilson plundered 18 runs from Marie Kelly; and Alex Griffiths plundered 10 runs from Lucy Higham. *Top-scorer Alex Griffiths 67(118) sliced a catch to Michaela Kirk at mid-wicket, bowled by Teresa Graves *Niamh Holland 8(9) sacrificed herself (for Fran Wilson) as ‘run out,’ when keeper Sarah Bryce raced the ball to the non-striker’s end, leaving both batters stranded. *Fran Wilson 43(36) top-edged, caught one-handed by keeper Sarah Bryce, bowled by Sophie Munro *Natasha Wraith and Sophia Smale scampered 7 overs scoring ‘1’s & ‘2’s.’ *No ‘fours’ were scored by batters (excluding ‘extras’) during the final 8 overs. *During the 46th over, Natasha Wraith 20(31) sliced to Ella Claridge at ‘mid-on,’ bowled by Teresa Graves. *Finally during Nadine deKlerk’s ‘death’ over, Sophia Smale 24(30) aerial shot was caught at ‘extra cover’ by Marie Kelly. *Piepa Cleary closed 14*not out (16) when Storm’s 50 overs quota expired, (handing Blaze their win.)

Summary Marie Kelly top-scored with an acting-skipper’s ‘fifty.’ Storm’s Nicole Harvey was stand-out bowler with new recruit Piepa Clearly keeping Storm in contention also taking a 3-fer. As mentioned above, relatively few ‘fours’ were scored after Blaze’s 20th over, it would be misleading to say (as reported elsewhere) there was a ’sudden’ middle-order collapse when 3 wickets fell for 19 runs. Thereafter, Blaze’s 7th wicket recovery added 74 to what became a winning score. Between innings, weather became cloudy, with attention focused upon the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method, in case of rain. Turning to Storm, opener Alex Griffiths made ‘fifty,’ with two key partnerships (Emma Corney & Fran Wilson.) As mentioned above, acting skipper Marie Kelly stepped-up by scoring ‘fifty;’ staged a ‘run-out;’ and clean-bowled her opposite number, Storm skipper Luff.’ For an encore, Marie Kelly took a vital ‘death over’ catch. Tight field-settings took the match down to wire. Storm batters were unable to find fielder’s gaps needed to secure a wafer-thin win. Unbeaten Blaze remain top-of-table in their first season, bagging their sixth win-in-a-row.

Result: The Blaze Women 245/10 beat Western Storm Women 239/7 (target 246); by 6 runs

*Blaze batting: 245/10 (@4.9 runs-per-over from 49.5 overs/50 overs); Marie Kelly 54(74), Sophie Munro 41(50), Teresa Graves 41(50), Michaela Kirk 40(49), Kathryn Bryce 20(24), Georgie Boyce 13(17), Sarah Bryce 11(15);  Storm bowling: Nicole Harvey 3/32, Piepa Cleary 3/43, Alex Griffiths 2/25, Michaela Robbins 1/42, Chloe Skelton 1/56; Fow 1-17, 2-42, 3-88, 4-130, 5-140, 6-149, 7-223, 8-226, 9-238, 10-245.

*Storm batting: 239/7 (@4.7 runs-per-over from 50/50 overs – target 246 from 50 overs); Alex Griffiths 67(118), Fran Wilson 43(36), Emma Corney 29(40), Sophia Smale 24(30), Natasha Wraith 20(31), Piepa Cleary 14*not out (16); Blaze bowling: Teresa Graves 2/28, Nadine de Klerk 1/29, Marie Kelly 1/38, Sophie Munro 1/39; Fow 1-69, 2-91, 3-150, 4-160, 5-176, 6-212, 7-236.

*Scorecard & statistics courtesy of ECB (via NV Play) at URL https://live.nvplay.com/ecb/?tab=m_scorecard#cfe6ae2eb-42c0-419f-8c45-68f7f498cd51_mb9fa1e1f-35e0-436c-ae59-da76815b8d50 & BBC Sport (radio Somerset) @URL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000551

*Match free-to-air (from 08h22/06h55m15s) courtesy of Gloscricket for Western Storm on YouTube at URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MIUT7v2riO4

Blaze made best use of match-practice beating Storm by a convincingly wide margin, preparing to play either Thunder or Vipers in the Competition’s Final. Storm fell short of posting a match-winning score, missing key players. Blaze made a slower start but overtook Storm mid-way. Blaze’s Kathryn Bryce 54*not out(37) made top-score as Blaze cruised to their 7th back-to-back win. Topping the group stage, undefeated Blaze go straight through to the final: playing the winning semi-finalists: either Thunder or Vipers (defending champions.) Commentators were Nick Webb (BBC Wales) & Ffion Wynne (Wales Women.) Video highlights from ECB online (NV Play) with full match video from Glamorgan CCC for Western Storm – please see below.

Storm innings *Skipper Sophie Luff *[Sarah Bryce keeping wicket for Blaze] *Returner Mollie Robbins; International player Orla Prendergast (Republic of Ireland) *Without England’s Heather Knight, Danielle Gibson & Lauren Filer *Natasha Wraith 4(2) played-on from an inside-edge, after hitting Grace Ballinger for ’four.’ *Missing a sweep, Orla Prendergast 19(14) went ‘leg-before’ to Grace Ballinger (2/24) *After six overs PowerPlay, Storm were 44/2 *Niamh Holland 21 (23) was ‘run out’ by Nadine deKlerk’s direct shy to the striker’s-end, from Kathryn Bryce. *Fran Wilson 4(6) ballooned a catch to Kathryn Bryce at ’extra cover,’ from Sophie Munro (1/21) *Storm reached 60/4 by mid-way. *Sophie Luff 19(18), went ‘leg-before’ to  Kathryn Bryce, missing a ’square-cut.’ *After 100 balls (16.4 overs) Storm were 108/5 *Emma Corney 23(32) played across-the-line,  bowled by Kathryn Bryce (2/17) *Sophia Smale 10(6) missed a ‘paddle,’ bowled by Nadine deKlerk 1/26 *Alex Griffiths 19*not out (19); & Mollie Robbins 1*not out. *Best Blaze bowler was Kathryn Bryce (2/17)

Blaze innings *Skipper Marie Kelly *[Natasha Wraith keeping wicket for Storm] *Without England’s Kirstie Gordon, Tammy Beaumont, Nat Sciver-Brunt or Sarah Glenn. *Bethany ‘Beth’ Harmer 12(17) edged a steepler to Sophie Luff (collecting short of ‘long-leg’); bowled by Clare Nicholas *Sarah Bryce 15(14) was caught by Chloe Skelton (collecting short of ‘long-leg’)  bowled by Sophia Smale (1/30) *After six overs PowerPlay, Blaze were 32/2 (vs 44/2) edging slightly ahead by mid-way without further loss: 69/2 (vs 60/4) *Georgie Boyce 26(27) was caught deep of ‘mid-off’ by Sophia Smale, bowled by Clare Nicholas( 2/24) *After 100 balls (16.4 overs) Blaze were 119/3 (vs 108/5.) *Marie Kelly was 20*not out(18) *Top-scorer Kathryn Bryce 54*not out(37) hit 1 ’six’& 6 ‘fours’ *Winning ball went for 4 ‘byes.’ *Best Storm bowler was spinner Claire Nicholas (2/24)

Match summary Storm made 44/2 from their PowerPlay, then lost 2 quick wickets. Skipper Luff and Emma Corney banked 42, but Storm fell short of posting a match-winning score, without key players called-up for England’s ‘Ashes’ training. Blaze made a slower start but gathered momentum overtaking Storm by mid-way, with 2 wickets’ lead. Blaze’s Kathryn Bryce  54*not out(37) made top score as Blaze cruised to their 7th back-to-back win. Storm finish their group stage sixth, with 3 wins and 4 losses. As mentioned above, undefeated Blaze go straight through to play the winning semi-finalists: Thunder or Vipers (defending champions) in the Competition’s Final (at Worcester.)

Match Result: The Blaze Women 137/3 beat Western Storm Women 134/7 by 7 wickets with 8 balls remaining

*Storm batting: 134/7 (20/20 overs 6.7 runs-per-over); Emma Corney 23(32)  Niamh Holland 21 (23) Alex Griffiths 19*not out (19), Sophie Luff 19(18), Orla Prendergast 19 (14), Sophia Smale 10(6); Blaze bowling: Kathryn Bryce 2/17, Grace Ballinger 2/24, Sophie Munro 1/21, Nadine deKlerk 1/26; Fow 1-4, 2-35, 3-48, 4-49, 5-91, 6-110, 7-123.

*Blaze batting: 137/3 (18.4/20 overs 7.3 r-p-o); Kathryn Bryce 54*not out(37), Georgie Boyce 26(27), Marie Kelly 20*not out (18), Sarah Bryce 15(14), Bethany ’Beth’ Harmer 12(17); Storm bowling: Claire Nicholas 2/24, Sophia Smale 1/30; Fow 1-28, 2-30, 3-96.

*Scorecard with video highlights, courtesy of ECB via NV Play at URL: https://live.nvplay.com/ecb/?tab=m_summary#m96860cf2-db34-4dea-9860-32c0a2ff0293 & BBC Sport at URL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKO56588

*Full match video courtesy of Glamorgan Cricket TV (starting from 07m30s/2h49m36s) via YouTube at URL:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yo09dzjef9c

*Latest England and Wales Cricket Board tables at URL: https://www.ecb.co.uk/matches/womens-t20/table

Storm convincingly beating Sparks, but will miss-out on finals-day, unless all top-three qualifying teams lose their next match. Vice-captain Danielle Gibson (pictured) bowled a 4-fer, taking two crucial pairs of wickets (4/23). The England candidate also scored a quick-fire 18 runs (from 14 balls) with her bat. Previously, Danielle Gibson told reporters that Storm wanted to ‘finish well’ not only by ‘playing to strengths’; but also ‘to entertain.’ Sat ‘opposite the pavillion,’ commentators were Ed ‘cricket’ Seabourne (Sports journalist) and Clare B Jenkins (Women’s cricket commentator & ex-Somerset Women.) Video highlights from Gloucester CCC, via ECB online (NV Play) – please see below. Weather was described as a ‘beautiful day,’ with clear blue sky.

Sparks innings: *Skipper Eve Jones *[Natasha Wraith keeping wicket for Storm] *Sparks with England’s Davina Perrin (u-19s)  *Ellie Anderson, Hannah Baker, Bethan Ellis & debutante Charis Paveley. *Emily Arlott & Grace Potts (both injured.) *International player Erin Burns; without Amy Jones or Issy Wong (International duty.) *2 wickets fell during Danielle Gibson’s 2nd over. Eve Jones 7(12) edged to Sophia Smale, who was ‘knocked backwards’ when catching short of ‘cover.’ *3 balls later, Ami Campbell’s 6(9) off-stump ‘keeled overs backwards’ as Danielle Gibson flung both her hands high. *After six overs PowerPlay, Sparks were 30/2 *Commentators curse struck twice. *Firstly, when Davina Perrin and Erin Burns were ‘building a partnership.’ *2 runs later, Davina Perrin 22(23) lobbed a dolly ‘straight to mid-off,’ taken by Chloe Skelton; from Alex Griffiths *Sparks were 57/3 by mid-way & after 16.4 overs, 105/3. *With 20 balls remaining, Sparks score ‘accelerated’ when Erin Burns partnered by Abbey Freeborn added 66 runs for Sparks’ 4th wicket. *Next ball, commentator’s curse struck again when Abbey Freeborn 21(22) edged wide of ‘off-stump’ and was caught low-down by Sophie Luff at ‘short-third,’ from Sophia Smale. *2 wickets fell during Danielle Gibson’s death over. *Top-scorer Erin Burns 66(45) lost her middle-stump to Danielle Gibson. *Finally, Katie George (ex-Storm) ‘steepled’ to Orla Prendergast 3(6) at ‘short-third.’ *Given the Bristol pitch ‘wasn’t high-scoring,’ commentators were convinced that Sparks total (135/6) was ‘very competitive.’ *Best Storm bowler was Danielle Gibson (4/23.)

Storm innings *Skipper Sophie Luff *[Abbey Freeborn keeping wicket for Sparks] *Storm with England’s Naimh Holland (u-19s); & ex-England’s Fran Wilson. *Debutante Rebecca Odgers. *International player Orla Prendergast (Republic of Ireland) *Without England skipper Heather Knight (International duty.) *Opener Danielle Gibson 18(14) ‘who was strong on her leg-side’ was caught by Erin Burns ‘in the covers’ (on opposite-side); from Katie George. *Natasha Wraith 6(11) was caught from a short-ball from Erin Burns, pulled straight to Ami Campbell at ‘mid-wicket.’ *After six overs PowerPlay, Storm were 51/2 (vs 30/2) & 77/2 (vs 57/3) by mid-way. *Orla Prendergast and Fran Wilson 3rd wicket partnership added 57 runs. *Said to be ‘in-form,’ Fran Wilson 34(28) was promptly stumped by keeper Abbey Freeborn from Hannah Baker. *Orla Prendergast and Sophie Luff unbeaten 4th wicket partnership added 45 runs that were needed to win, without any further loss. *Best Sparks bowler was Erin Burns (1/21.)

Match summary Sparks posted a defendable score of 135 that commentators said was ‘defendable,’ given the ground. Sparks’ ‘All-Rounder’ Erin Burns (Australia WBBL) made top-score (66) and Storm’s ‘All-Rounder’ Danielle Gibson took 4 wickets. When Storm replied, their early advantage (PowerPlay difference of 21 runs) equated to Danielle Gibson’s innings as ‘opener’ (18). Storm’s run-chase was enabled by Orla Prendergast (Republic of Ireland) making top-score, partnered not only by Fran Wilson (banking 57 runs); but also skipper Sophie Luff. For Storm’s match summary, please see URL: https://westernstorm.co.uk/news/orla-steers-storm-to-victory-over-sparks/

Match result: Western Storm Women 137/3 beat Central Sparks Women 135/6 by 7 wickets with 4 balls remaining

*Sparks batting: 135/6 (from 20/20 overs @6.7 runs-per-over); Erin Burns 66(45), Davina Perrin 22(23), Abbey Freeborn 21(22), Storm bowling: Danielle Gibson 4/23, Alex Griffiths 1/24, Sophia Smale 1/15; Fow 1-13, 2-16, 3-52, 4-118, 5-130, 6-131.

*Storm batting: 137/3 (from 19.2/20 overs @7.1 r-p-o); Orla Prendergast 46*not out(43), Fran Wilson 34(28), Danielle Gibson 18(14), Sophie Luff 20*not out (21); Sparks bowling: Hannah Baker 1/21, Erin Burns 1/26, Katie George 1/27; Fow 1-25, 2-35, 3-92.

*Scorecard with video highlights, courtesy of ECB via NV Play on YouTube at URL: https://live.nvplay.com/ecb/#cdc38bf13-4f50-4dde-b543-741109226324_mfa068bc4-b38c-42af-91ef-850e56d42ce1_~scorecard

*Full match video courtesy of Glos.Cricket for Western Storm (starting from 09m43s/3h00m20s) via YouTube at URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X59HEp7h2QM

*Latest England and Wales Cricket Board tables at URL: https://www.ecb.co.uk/matches/womens-t20/table