Australian Charli Knott scored a career-best 102 in record time for Vipers as defending champions, partnered by skipper Maia Bouchier and Georgia Adams. Previous Vipers’ fastest ton record-holder Georgia Elwiss, partnered by Freya Kemp, struck a match-winning fifty runs from 29 balls; setting Storm a formidable target, shy of 300. Four Storm batters scored ‘fifties.’ Heather Knight and Fran Wilson added 112. With 81 needed from the last ten overs, Danni Gibson played a pivotal role, scoring faster than one-run-per-over. Firstly by adding another 78 runs in 9 overs with skipper Sophie Luff. Secondly, partnered by Molly Robbins, Danni Gibson took the match down to the final over. Overall, both teams put on a great show going down-to-the-wire. For Storm, it was their second consecutive ‘nerve-racking’ match, decided by another wafer-thin margin. Commentator (and interviewer – please see below) was Kevan ‘Kev’ James (BBC Solent Radio) Weather: mild with sunny spells.

*Vipers’ innings  skipper Georgia Adams with England’s Maia Bouchier, Freya Davies, Freya Kemp & Danni Wyatt; Mary Taylor (England u19) Georgia Elwiss (ex England); Charli Knott (Australia Big-bash); *Without Alice Monaghan & Nancy Harman; *Maia Bouchier was caught at ‘cover’ by Heather Knight, from Amanda-Jade Wellington; *After 10 overs power-play 73/1, *By midway (25ov) 144/1; *Georgia Adams was caught at ‘cover’ by Heather Knight, from Sophia Smale; *Charli Knott was bowled by Sophia Smale; *Danni Wyatt was bowled by Alex Griffiths; *Charlie Dean was caught at ‘mid-off’ by Heather Knight from Danni Gibson; *Freya Kemp and Georgia Elwiss were undefeated. *Vipers’ batting Charli Knott 102(112), Georgia Adams 65(86), Freya Kemp 44*not out(33), Maia Bouchier 34(44), Georgia Elwiss 18*not out(10), Danni Wyatt 11(10); *Storm’s bowling *Sophia Smale 2/49, Alex Griffiths 1/46, Amanda-Jade Wellington 1/52, Danni Gibson 1/63;

* Storm’s innings skipper Sophie Luff, with England’s Danielle ‘Danni’ Gibson, Heather Knight; Mollie Robbins, Chloe Skelton, Sophia Smale, (England u-19s), Fran Wilson (ex England), & Amanda-Jade Wellington (Australia World Cup winner & Big bash) Without Lauren Filer, Ellie Anderson or Jess Hazell; [*Rhianna Southby keeping wicket for Vipers]; *Sophia Smale was caught at ‘mid-off’ by Maia Bouchier, from  Freya Davies;*Alex Griffiths snicked to keeper Rhianna Southby, from Freya Davies; *After 10 overs power-play 38/2 (vs 73/1):*By midway (25ov) 125/2 (vs 144/1); *Heather Knight was ‘run-out’ by a deflection onto the non-striker’s stumps, by bowler Freya Davies; *Fran Wilson was caught at ‘deep mid-wicket’ by Dani Wyatt, from Charlie Dean; *Nat Wraith was caught at ‘deep mid-wicket’ by Maia Bouchier, from Charli Knott; *Sophie Luff was caught at ‘mid-off’ by Maia Bouchier, from Georgia Adams; *Niamh Holland was bowled by Linsey Smith; *During the final over, Danni Gibson was caught at ‘mid-wicket’ by Freya Kemp, from Georgia Adams; *Mollie Robbins was ‘run out’ by Charlie Dean. *Finally, Amanda-Jade Wellington hit 2 ’two’s,’ narrowing the margin to 4 runs. *Storm’s batting Match went down to the final ball. *Four batters scored ‘fifty:’ Heather Knight 62(59), Fran Wilson 53(63), Sophie Luff 51(50); Danielle ‘Danni’ Gibson 51(34), Alex Griffiths 16(25); *Vipers’ bowling Freya Davies 2/51, Georgia Adams 2/58, Charlie Dean 1/33, Linsey Smith 1/62, Charli Knott 1/66;

Match result: Southern Vipers 295/5 (@ 5.9 runs-per-over, 50/50 overs) beat Western Storm 291/9 (@ 5.8 rpo, target 296 from 50 ov) by 4 runs

*Scorecard courtesy of ECB @URL https://www.ecb.co.uk/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy/match-centre/104436#scorecard

*Full match free-to-air  <06h59m12s> courtesy of Western Storm & NV Play accessible @URL https://westernstorm.co.uk/news/2024-rhft-western-storm-v-southern-vipers-live/ Viewers may need to be have Facebook social media to access the full match video via Western Storm’s website

*BBC Solent radio interview ‘Centurion Charli Knott Praises ‘Great Group’ (Vipers) In Storm Win’ courtesy of Southern Vipers via YouTube <02:42> @URL https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vrx2hzoVowY

Speaking post-match, England veteran Fran Wilson (pictured) told reporters that Storm batters knew they were capable to ‘pull-off’ a good win, in a rain-affected match. By mid-way (22 overs) Storm’s were 20 runs behind, bolstered by a 131-run partnership between Fran Wilson and skipper Sophie Luff. As Storm’s top-scorer with 65 runs (from 61 balls) Fran Wilson added that bowlers had expected the ball ’to move around a bit.’ Earlier in the match, 3 Stars’ batters scored ‘fifties,’ setting Storm a daunting 300-run target. A lower target emerged once more were overs docked by inclement weather. Australian Amanda-Jade Wellington ‘hit a few sixes,’ added a quick-fire 33 runs with Natasha Wraith in 21 balls. As heavy rain returned the match ended prematurely. Storm were declared winners by a wafer-thin three-run margin (‘Duckworth-Lewis-Stern’ method.) Lead commentator was Ed ‘cricket’ Seabourne. Weather ‘grey and overcast’ with ball-towelling.

*Stars’ innings skipper Bryony Smith with Alice-Davidson-Richards (England); Ryana MacDonald-Gay & Paige Scholfield (England ‘A’) with Phoebe Franklin & Danielle Gregory; *Without rested England duo Sophia Dunkley & Tash Farrant  [Natasha ‘Nat’ Wraith keeping wicket for Storm] *Bryony Smith 30(19) was caught by Jess Hazell from the first ball of Mollie Robbins’ first over *Alexa Stonehouse was caught by Fran Wilson from Ellie Anderson; *By mid-way 22/44ov, 142/2; *Paige Scholfield and Alice Davidson-Richards main partnership added 100 runs from 109 balls; *Paige Scholfield 74 went ‘leg before’ to Niamh Holland; *Alice Davidson-Richards partnered by Aylish Cranstone added 51; *Alice Davidson-Richards 65 was caught by Sophia Smale from Alex Griffiths; *Phoebe Franklin was caught With bowled Niamh Holland; *During the last 4 overs (41-44), Ryana MacDonald-Gay partnered by Aylish Cranstone added 47 (from 24 balls); *Stars batting: Three batters  made ‘fifties;’ Paige Scholfield 74(68), Alice Davidson-Richards 65(85), Aylish Cranstone 63*not out(40), Bryony Smith 30(19), Alexa Stonehouse 29(39), Ryana MacDonald-Gay 17*not out(11); *Storm bowling Used 9 bowlers; *Niamh Holland 2/59 Alex Griffiths 1/52, Mollie Robbins 1/29, Ellie Anderson 1/39;

* Storm’s innings skipper Sophie Luff; with Sophia Smale (England u-19s), Fran Wilson (ex England), & Amanda-Jade Wellington (Australia World Cup winner & Big bash) *with Mollie Robbins, Ellie Anderson & debutante Jess Hazell; *Without rested England trio Danielle ‘Danni’ Gibson, Heather Knight or Lauren Filer; [*Chloe Hill keeping wicket for Stars]; *Alex Griffiths was bowled by Alexa Stonehouse; *After power-play, Sophia Smale was caught-and-bowled by Phoebe Franklin; *By mid-way 22/44ov, 122/2 (vs 142/2); *Sopie Luff partnered by Fran Wilson added 131 runs (from 119 balls); *Sophie Luff was bowled by Bethan Miles; *Fran Wilson was stumped by Chloe Hill, from Danni Gregory; As mentioned above, Amanda-Jade Wellington partnered by Natasha Wraith, added what turned out to be a match-winning 33 runs in 21 balls; *Amanda-Jade Wellingtonwas caught by Ryana MacDonald-Gay, from Bethan Miles; *Scoring faster than one-run-per-over, Natasha Wraith & Niamh Holland were ‘not-out’ and saw Storm to victory; *Storm’s batting Fran Wilson 65(61) Sophie Luff 59(73); Natasha Wraith 40(28), Amanda-Jade Wellington 30(16), Niamh Holland 15(15); *Stars’ bowling Used 9 bowlers; *Bethan Miles 2/47, Phoebe Franklin 1/14, Alexa Stonehouse 1/18, Danni Gregory 1/38;

Match result: Western Storm 236/5 (@6.5 runs-per-over, target 299 from 36/36 overs) beat South East Stars 298/5 (@6.7 rpo 44/44 ov) by 3 runs DLS method

*Scorecard courtesy of ECB @URL https://www.ecb.co.uk/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy/match-centre/104433#scorecard

*Full match free-to-air  <7h44m08s> courtesy of Western Storm & NV Play accessible @URL https://westernstorm.co.uk/news/sophie-and-fran-help-storm-to-dramatic-win/ Viewers may need to be have Facebook social media to access the full match video via Western Storm’s website

*BBC Somerset radio interview ‘Fran Wilson Reacts to Brilliant Victory’ via ‘YouTube’<3m50>@URL https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVOevu6V5_4

Sophie Luff 76 (pictured) who played a skipper’s innings with top-score, later said she was ‘really proud’ for a ‘great team performance.’ During Storm’s innings, commentators lauded Sophie Ecclestone who was ‘pick of Thunder’s bowlers,’ taking a 3-fer. Storm posted a match-winning 162 runs from their last 30 overs. When Thunder replied, Storm’s Australian World Cup winner Amanda-Jade Wellington was hit for back-to-back ‘sixes,’ but later proved decisive by removing both of Thunder’s top batters (Katie Mack & Emma Lamb) just eight balls apart. Thereafter, Thunder’s challenge fell away. Storm’s bowlers Sophia Smale and Chloe Skelton both chalked-up 3-fers, lauded as ‘pivotal’ for Storm’s first win of the season. Commentators for LancsTV, Alex Hartley (ex England women), with Paul Shaw (ex Thunder Coach.) Weather was chilly, overcast, slowing outfield with rain forecast.

*Storm’s innings skipper Sophie Luff; with Danielle ‘Danni’ Gibson & Lauren Filer (England), Sophia Smale (England u-19s), Fran Wilson (ex England), &  Amanda-Jade Wellington (Australia World Cup winner & Big bash) *One change: Katie Jones for Mollie Robbins;  [*Ellie Threlkeld keeping wicket for Thunder]; *After 10 overs power-play: 41/0; Alex Griffiths was bowled by Sophie Ecclestone; *Two wickets fell 5 balls apart firstly when Sophia Smale was bowled by ‘Sophie Ecclestone; *Next over, Fran Wilson was caught by Naomi Dattani from Phoebe Graham; *Danni Gibson was also bowled by Sophie Ecclestone; *By mid-way (25 overs) 92/4; *Nat Wraith was caught at ‘mid-on’ by Sophie Ecclestone’s ‘diving catch to her right,’ from Phoebe Graham; *Niamh Holland was caught by Katie Mack, from Mahika Gaur;*Sophie Luff partnered by Amanda-Jade Wellington added 56 runs from Storm’s last six overs; *Storm’s batting posted a defendable score – around 250; Sophie Luff 76(100); Nat Wraith 38(53); Amanda-Jade Wellington 31*not out(19); Alex Griffiths  24(38); Sophia Smale 28(48); Niamh Holland 22(24); Danielle ‘Danni’ Gibson 16(12); *Thunder bowling Sophie Ecclestone 3/16 with best economy from ten overs (1.6); Phoebe Graham 2/56, Mahika Gaur 1/49 also bowled full ten overs with joint 2nd place for economy;

Thunder’s innings *Skipper Eleanor ‘Ellie’ Threlkeld *With Sophie Ecclestone, Kate Cross, Emma Lamb (England), Seren Smale (England u19s), Katie Mack (Australia Big bash); with one change: Mahika Gaur for Tara Norris; [*Natasha ‘Nat’ Wraith keeping wicket for Storm] *During the power-play Seren Smale was caught by Danni Gibson at ‘cover’ from Lauren Filer; *Level-pegging scores after 10 overs 39/1 (vs 41/0); *Katie Mack partnered by Emma Lamb were bowled by Amanda-Jade Wellington eight balls apart; *Katie Mack’s middle stump was skittled by a ‘dead-straight’ ball; Emma Lamb (gaffed by commentators as Fi Morris) missing a ’sweep’ shot; *Approaching mid-way, Chloe Skelton was on a hat-trick after Fi Morris snicked an ‘outside-edge’ to keeper Nat Wraith; *Naomi Dattani was bowled ‘middle-and-leg’ for a golden duck at ‘bail height;’ *Alex Griffiths also snicked to Nat Wraith, this time from Sophie Ecclestone; *By mid-way (25 overs) 104/6 (vs 92/4); *Ellie Threlkeld partnered by Kate Cross added 69 runs from Thunder’s next 14 overs; *Both batters departed 3 balls apart: firstly, when Kate Cross was bowled by Sophia Smale *Also, Ellie Threlkeld went ‘leg-before’ to Chloe Skelton. *Next over, Mahika Gaur went for a 2nd ball duck from Sophia Smale; *Finally, Phoebe Graham was bowled by Sophia Smale. *Thunder batting Emma Lamb 38(53); Kate Cross 36(42); Eleanor ‘Ellie’ Threlkeld 32(60); Katie Mack 28(32); Fi Morris 16(23), Phoebe Graham 10(12); *Storm’s bowling Chloe Skelton 3/35, Sophia Smale 3/42; Amanda-Jade Wellington 2/46, Lauren Filer 1/13 with best economy (3.25); Alex Griffiths 1/15;

Match result: Western Storm 252/6 (@5.0 runs per over from 50/50 overs) beat North West Thunder 186 (@4.3 rpo from 42.4/50ov; target 253 from 50 ov) by 66 runs (with 44 balls remaining)

*Scorecard courtesy of ECB @URL https://www.ecb.co.uk/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy/match-centre/104427#scorecard AppleMac users may need to scroll down the left-hand margin

*Video highlights courtesy of Western Storm & NV Play via ‘YouTube’ <04m49s>@URL https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wlieO2bi5uQ&t=6s

*Full match free-to-air courtesy of Lancs TV & NV Play via ‘YouTube’ <7h04m15s> @URL https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWZAVYP7abk

Diamonds chalked-up back-to-back wins, with some of the ‘most experienced’ players in the competition. Hollie Armitage scored a skipper’s ton (103) to go top of the batting leader board. Commentators lauded Abi Glen who played ’shots all round the ground’ scoring (what turned out to be) a match-winning ‘fifty’ from the very last ball of Diamonds’ innings. Three Storm bowlers each took 3-fers. Abi Glen and Phoebe Turner each took 3-fers for Diamonds. Commentators: Jonathan Doidge (BBC radio Leeds), Graham Hardcastle (Sports journalist, referred to endearingly by Doidge as ‘Cally’); with guest Dr Jane Powell (President, Yorks CCC; former England & Yorks women.)

Separately, there was some controversy concerning a news story said to have been ‘leaked’ insensitively by the Press. Commentators added that Yorkshire Cricket’s scaled-back plans to support women’s cricket from next year had been ‘upsetting’ for Diamonds’ players to discover, in the light of Durham’s successful bid. Weather: dry, breezy, with the threat of intermittent light drizzle forecast, around 10-12C.

*Diamonds‘ innings *Skipper Hollie Armitage (England & England A), Bess Heath (England & Aus Big bash), Abigail ‘Abi’ Glen, Lauren Winfield-Hill (England, Aus Big bash) *Sterre Kalis (NL) & Erin Burns (Australia Big bash) Sophia Turner (Thunder loan) *Without Jess Woolston [*Natasha Wraith keeping wicket for Storm, who elected to bowl] *Seamer Danni Gibson took two wickets during the power-play, where low deliveries both ‘nipped back.’ *Firstly, Sterre Kalis was bowled ‘off-and-middle.’ *Secondly, Lauren Winfield-Hill ‘stepped back,’ off-stump skittled.*After 10 overs power-play 50/2. *Amanda-Jade Wellington took three wickets in a row. *Firstly, Bess Heath was caught by Mollie Robbins.*Secondly, fellow Australian Erin Burns was bowled ‘through-the-gate.’ *Thirdly, Leah Dobson was caught low-down at mid-wicket by Niamh Holland. *By mid-way (25 overs) Diamonds were 115/5. *Second-half batting heroics saw Hollie Artmitage ‘find the (fielding) gaps,’ to score her first century of the season *Also Abi Glen who played shots ‘all round the ground,’ bagged her match-winning ‘fifty’ by scoring 14 runs from Lauren Filer’s final over. *Diamonds’ batting *Diamonds showed resiliance beyond mid-way *Hollie Armitage 103 (114), Abi Glen 53*not out (46), Lauren Winfield-Hill 32(33), Phoebe Turner 32(42), Bess Heath 13(14); *Storm’s bowling: After Danni Gibson took two power-play wickets, Amanda-Jade Wellington took a 3-fer. *Sophia Smale was on a hat-trick once Hollie Armitage was caught by Fran Wilson. *Next ball, Lizzie Scott received a golden duck. *Three bowlers took 3-fers: Amanda-Jade Wellington 3/30, Danielle Gibson 3/44, Sophia Smale 3/63;

*Storm’s innings skipper Sophie Luff with Danielle ‘Danni’ Gibson (England), Sophia Smale (England u-19s), Fran Wilson (ex England), &  Amanda-Jade Wellington (Australia World Cup winner & Big bash) *Also with Lauren Filer (England.) After 10 overs power-play 53/0(vs 50/2.) Level-pegging by mid-way (25 overs) 145/5 (vs 115/5.) *Sophia Smale 35 was bowled leg-stump by Phoebe Turner. *Fran Wilson 32 was also bowled leg-stump, by a ‘well-pitched’ ball from Erin Burns.*Danni Gibson 5 was also bowled by Erin Burns. *Natasha Wraith 27 was bowled middle-stump by Phoebe Turner. *With 84 still needed, Amanda-Jade Wellington was bowled ‘through-the-gate’ by Abi Glen.*Three balls later, Niamh Holland was bowled between middle-and-off by Sophia Turner. *Next over, Mollie Robbins 4 was bowled by Abi Glen, at which point Storm needed 30 runs from their last two overs.*Commentators were right to say that Diamonds had ‘closed-out’ the match (beyond Storm’s reach.). *Storm’s batting Seven batters were clean-bowled. No ’fifties,’ with 30 runs needed from last two overs.*Sophia Smale 35(49), Fran Wilson 32(36), Niamh Holland 29(53), Amanda-Jade Wellington 28(26), Natasha Wraith 27(36), Alex Griffiths 26(31), Sophie Luff 25(37), Chloe Skelton 11*not out(7); *Diamonds’ bowling: Two bowlers took 3-fers Abi Glen 3/42, Phoebe Turner 3/46, Erin Burns 2/41, Sophia Turner 1/43, Katie Levick 1/54;

Match result: Northern Diamonds 275/9 (50/50 overs@5.5 runs-per-over) beat Western Storm 265 (49.2/50 ov target 276 @5.3 rpo) by 10 runs with 4 balls remaining.

*Scorecard courtesy of ECB @URL https://www.ecb.co.uk/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy/match-centre/104422#scorecard

*Video highlights free-to-air via Yorkshire Cricket TV (via NV Play) <10:19> edited from <7h24m40s> @URL https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vGryMRZQ8Lk&list=PLwSayea3yDF_s3v6N79zINUdJsFjFm8yX

*Youtube video free-to-air via Yorkshire Cricket TV (via NV Play) <7h24m40s> @URL https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CcasAHRMLM

Sunrisers chalked-up their fifth consecutive win at fifty overs, although on this occasion both sides played just over thirty overs apiece. Key to Sunrisers’ victory were two 3-fers: from seamer Nicola Hancock (Australian on short-term contract); also from leg-spinner Jodi Grewcock (England u19s – just returned from high humidity conditions when playing in Sri Lanka.) After setting themselves a comfortable winning target, Skipper Grace Scrivens 63*not out (pictured) partnered by Cordelia Griffith 28 together added 59 runs for Sunrisers 2nd wicket – the highest batting partnership of the match. That resulted in Sunrisers’ comfortable win, albeit with a slower run-rate. Commentators: Kath Wilkins (Coach and former player, England and Somerset Women); with Dr Hannah Thompson-Radford. Match was played in dry chilly conditions with clear blue sky at first, becoming cloudy later 12C.

Storm’s innings skipper Sophie Luff, with Danni Gibson (England), Sophia Smale (England u19s), Fran Wilson (ex-England) & Amanda-Jade Wellington (Australia World Cup winner & big-bash league.) [*Amara Carr keeping wicket for Sunrisers] *Batting at No7, Natasha Wraith 42 (52) made top score, striking six ‘fours,’ also ensuring Storm chalked-up three figures. *After ten overs’ power-play, Storm batters were ’looking solid’ on 33/1. *Storm reached 88/7 by midway (drinks.) *Sunrisers ‘put pressure’ on Storm’s batters culminating in a ‘dramatic’ batting collapse, having taken five wickets in 8.1 overs.’ *Commentator’s curse struck when Sophie Luff ‘who’d previously made 157′ against the same team, collided with Sophia Smale. *Sophia Smale failing to complete the single whilst finding her feet as Esmae MacGregor removed the bails at the bowler’s end. *Jodi Grewcock who’d previously taken a 3-fer against Storm, last September (at 50 overs during Sept’23) dismissed Storm’s top three batters: Sophie Luff, Danni Gibson and Amanda-Jade Wellington, the latter falling to a ‘great’ diving catch by Grace Scrivens. *‘Looking to sweep,’ Katie Jones went ‘leg-before’ to Mady Villiers. *Fran Wilson chipped a ’simple catch’ to Jo Gardner and Niamh Holland lobbed a return dolly, easily caught-and-bowled by Esmae MacGregor. *Storm’s batting: *Only three batters made double-figures. Natasha Wraith 42(52), Fran Wilson 18(22), Sophia Smale 16(40); *Sunrisers’ bowling: *Seamer Nicola Hancock took 3/15 on debut with best economy. Nicola Hancock 3/15, Jodi Grewcock 3/28, Mady Villiers 2/36, Esmae MacGregor 1/16.

Sunrisers’ Innings  skipper Grace Scrivens (England ‘A’) with Jodi Grewcock (England u19s), Mady Villiers (ex-England) & Nicola Hancock (Australian big-bash league: Queensland and Brisbane Heat.) [Nat Wraith keeping wicket for ‘Storm’] *Grace Scrivens 63*not out (98) made top score with 10 ‘fours’, playing a skipper’s innings partnered by Cordelia Griffith 28(48) who struck 4 ‘fours.’ *Ariana Dowse (who’d previously scored a maiden ‘ton’) went first-ball to Amanda-Jade Wellington’s ‘full-toss.’ *Jodi Grewcock (3 ‘fours’) helped see Sunrisers home, winning by their largest ever margin: by 8 wickets with almost 20 overs to spare. *Sunrisers’ batting: Grace Scrivens 63*(98), Cordelia Griffith 28(48), Jodi Grewcock 15*(34); *Storm’s bowling: Amanda-Jade Wellington 1/32; Chloe Skelton 1/32.

Result: Sunrisers 116/2 (33.4/50 overs, 3.44 runs-per-over; target 115 from 50 ov) beat Western Storm 114 ( 30.4/50 overs 3.71 rpo) by eight wickets with 98 balls remaining

*Scorecard courtesy of ECB @URL https://www.ecb.co.uk/rachael-heyhoe-flint-trophy/match-centre/104421#scorecard

*Youtube video <5h17m20s> courtesy of Glamorgan Cricket TV, with highlights edited by NV Play @URL https://westernstorm.co.uk/fixtures-results/#v967b7873-be15-4683-aa64-32c432adda9c

*ECB Reporters network match report @URL https://www.sunriserscricket.com/post/match-report-storm-v-sunrisers

RFH Trophy, Beckenham, 22 July

For anyone unfamiliar with the cream of English poetry, the preceding line runs: ‘Rain, rain, go away’.

At Beckenham it stayed away for two balls of the Storm innings, then the players scurried for shelter. It was a relief to see them reappear, allowing the score to mount to 182-4. Then the rain came good and proper.

Storm were delighted to welcome back their two new England caps, Danielle Gibson and Lauren Filer. Sadly for spectators the early finish prevented them from seeing their new fast bowler in action.

She may even be thankful for missing out. As Ryana MacDonald-Gay came in to bowl the second over, she took a nasty tumble. Fortunately she recovered quickly, and, as she warmed to her task, produced some testing balls. Freya Davies too tempted the openers, Alex Griffiths and Emma Corney into the odd injudicious swish. 19-year-old Corney has been producing the goods in this series; since the start of May she hasn’t had a failure. Today, following a 69 against Vipers, she batted for 90 minutes, accumulating 48 before she mistimed a skier to Bryony Smith at mid-off.

Griffiths was more productive, but fell for 27, turning a ball from Alexa Stonehouse into Paige Scholfield’s hands at mid-wicket.

Storm’s batting has been iffy this series, but Fran Wilson (23) and skipper Sophie Luff (34*) made sure they kept the scoreboard ticking over. Wilson fell to a fine catch at backward point by RMG. Gibson’s entry at No 5 added more impetus. It needed Davies to return for a second spell to get her out, and that was from a catch by Alice Davidson-Richards at long-on. ADR had a big say in affairs: apart from the catch she took the wickets of Corney and her old team-mate Wilson.

A lot of Stars’ outfielding was very fine; balls lassooed an inch from the boundary rope, the catches caught and throws that zoomed into Kira Chathli’s gloves above the bails. Tazmin Brits took two painful blows to the hand as she stood her ground at extra-cover to fierce shots.

That fourth wicket was nearly our lot for the day. The forecasters had got things exactly right, so the game ended frustratingly in the early afternoon, with what you might call a no-score draw.

If I offered £1 millon for an invention that permitted outdoor play during rain, costing no more that £50,000 to install, I suspect my money might be safe.

Teams:

South East Stars:
Bryony Smith (captain), Alexa Stonehouse, Kira Chathli (wk), Tazmin Brits, Alice Davidson- Richards, Paige Scholfield, Jemima Spence, Kalea Moore, Ryana MacDoanald-Gay, Freya Davies, Danielle Gregory

Western Storm:
Alex Griffiths, Emma Corney, Fran Wilson, Sophie Luff (captain), Danielle Gibson, Niamh Holland, Katie Jones (wk), Sophia Smale, Lauren Filer, Chloe Skelton, Phoebe Graham

Score: Storm 182-4 (36 overs, run-rate 5.05) Stars dnb
2 points each

Afterthoughts

We have got used to seeing the eight regional teams well stocked with full England caps. It’s especially gratifying to see so many of this year’s Under 19 squad finding a place in the teams. Appearing at Beckenham were Niahm Holland and Sophia Smale for Storm and RMG and Stonehouse for Stars.

It was excellent seeing James Tredwell, the former Kent and England off-spinner, standing in this game. I’m sure he will have been impressed by the performances of the five Kent players in the home team.

We should be grateful for small mercies. Of the four games in this round two failed to start, and the other, at Arundel, managed only 26 overs.

Western Storm have a wafer-thin chance to qualify for finals day, convincingly beating Sunrisers. England candidate & Storm vice-captain Danielle Gibson (pictured) top-scored, hitting 65 (from 46 balls) in a 3rd-wicket century stand of 115 runs with former England batter Fran Wilson – who made an unbeaten ‘fifty.’ Storm’s target was set when Danielle Gibson took a ‘fabulous’ return catch from Amara Carr, to chalk-up her second wicket from Sunrisers’ last ball. After the match, Danielle Gibson told reporters Storm wanted to ‘finish well’ not only by ‘playing to strengths’; but also ‘to entertain.’ Commentator was Guy Swindells (Broadcaster & Sports journalist.) Video highlights from ECB online (NV Play) from Sunrisers Cricket TV on YouTube. Weather was cool and cloudy.

Sunrisers Innings: *Skipper Kelly Castle *[Natasha Wraith keeping wicket for Storm] *England’s u-19 skipper Grace Scrivens. *International player Dane v.Niekerk (ex Republic of South Africa); *Scotland’s Abtaha Maqsood. *’Early breakthrough’ for Storm, when Claire Nicholas changed to bowling round-the-wicket. *Mady Villiers 8 runs (from 5 balls) bales were sent flying, when ‘missing a swing.’ *Score ‘picked-up’ when Dane v.Niekerk 20(19) struck 4 consecutive ‘fours’ from Lauren Filer. *After a ‘dot’ ball, v.Niekerk snicked an edge to keeper Natasha Wraith, from Lauren Filer. *After 6 overs’ PowerPlay, Sunrisers were 48/2, reaching 84/2 by mid-way (10 overs.) *Commentator’s gaff when ‘Alice Macleod’ played down the wrong line. *Instead, Alex Griffiths 15(15) was seen to be stumped by keeper Natasha Wraith from Chloe Skelton. *Alice Macleod 34(28) was caught at ‘point’ (13 balls later) by Orla Prendergast from Danielle Gibson. *Next over, Grace Scrivens was caught at ‘extra cover’ by Sophie Luff’ from Chloe Skelton. *Sunrisers were 114/5 after 16.4 overs (100 balls with 20 remaining.) *Jo Gardner top-scored adding 48 runs when partnered by Amara Carr 12(14). *Danielle Gibson took a ‘fabulous’ caught-and-bowled from Sunrisers last ball, leaving Jo Gardner 37*not out. *Sunrisers chalked-up their top-score in this year’s competition.

Storm’s Innings: *Skipper Sophie Luff [Amara Carr keeping wicket for Sunrisers] with England’s Naimh Holland (u-19s) & ex-England’s Fran Wilson. *Ireland International Orla Prendergast retained ‘for a few more weeks.’ Without England skipper Heather Knight.*Opener Natasha Wraith was easily caught by Jo Gardner at ‘mid-on,’ from Mady Villiers’ 5th ball. *10 balls later Orla Prendergast was ‘run out’ from an ‘unfortunate’ case of bad luck. *Danielle Gibson’s return shot hit Grace Scrivens’ body, and ricocheted to dislodge bales at the bowler’s end. *With Orla Prendergast as ‘out,’ seen standing just outside her crease, Umpires ruled ‘out.’ *After 6 overs’ PowerPlay, scores were level-pegging 50/2 (vs 48/2); and stayed neck-and-neck 82/2 (vs 84/2) by mid-way (10 overs.) *During their century partnership Danielle Gibson and Fran Wilson plundered 31 runs from just 2 overs, during which Jo Gardner was launched by Danielle Gibson for the only ’six’ of the match. *Attempting to launch Kelly Castle for a second ’six,’ Gibson was caught inside the boundary by Flo Miller. *Storm were 136/3 (vs 114/5) after 16.4 overs. *Separately, when Sophie Luff hit ‘four’ to bring scores level, followed by scoring the winning ’single.’ For post-script, Sophie Luff may have recalled her own disbelief last year, when Sunrisers failed to realise that scores had drawn level. *Bizarrely, on that occasion, Sunrisers’ premature celebration conceded four overthrows, handing last year’s victory to Storm. 

Match summary Sunrisers posted a defendable score of 149, with Jo Gardner making top-score. When Storm replied, Orla Prendergast was ‘run out’ by an unfortunate dismissal, left stranded when Danielle Gibson’s return shot bounced off the bowler’s body and dislodged the bales at the bowler’s end. Otherwise, the match was finely balanced until mid-way. Thereafter, the match was dominated by Fran Wilson partnered by Danielle Gibson. Their batting partnership banked 115 runs for Storm’s third-wicket. Once Danielle Gibson was out, with insufficient power to clear the boundary fielder, skipper Luff had little to do hit the 150 target and chalk-up Storm’s second win from five matches played-to-date. Storm match summary at URL https://westernstorm.co.uk/news/dani-and-fran-star-in-outstanding-win/

Match result: Western Storm Women 150/3 (target 150 from 20 overs) beat Sunrisers Women 149/6 by 7 wickets with 10 balls remaining.

*Sunrisers batting: 149/6 (from 20/20 overs @7.45 runs-per-over): Jo Gardner 37*not out (29), Alice Macleod 34(28), Dane van Niekerk 20(19), Cordelia Griffith 15(15), Amara Carr 12(14); Western Storm bowling: Chloe Skelton 2/19, Danielle Gibson 2/27, Clare Nicholas 1/16, Lauren Filer 1/31; Fow: 1-9, 2-37, 3-85, 4-97, 5-101, 6-149.

*Storm batting: 150/3 (from 18.2/20 overs @8.18 runs-per-over): Danielle Gibson 62(46), Fran Wilson 58*not out(42), Sophie Luff 13*not out(12); Sunrisers bowling: Mady Villiers 1/20, Kelly Castle 1/24; Fow: 1-2, 2-16, 3-131.

*Scorecard with video highlights, courtesy of ECB via NV Play on YouTube at URL: https://live.nvplay.com/ecb/#cdc38bf13-4f50-4dde-b543-741109226324_me08cf0a3-976c-4850-a415-4eeb9262997c_~scorecard & at URL https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000515

*Full match video (starting from17m25s/02h59m55s) courtesy of Sunrisers Cricket on YouTube at URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9XpA3Z1KlEM&t=35s

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

Republic of Ireland international Orla Prendergast (pictured) took all three wickets that reduced Stars to 14/3 after just 4 overs’ PowerPlay. Firstly, Prendergast clean-bowled Bryony Smith; secondly caught Paige Scholfield and thirdly, bowled a wicket-maiden (during which Aylish Cranstone was caught.) Orla Prendergast also made second-best score with her bat, during a ‘thriller’ match that went down-to-the-wire. After the match, Orla Prendergast told reporters the first-half went ‘very well’ and she was ‘very happy’ with the ‘rhythmic’ way she bowled. After the match, commentators said that Storm were ‘not quite able to win.’ Commentators were Ed ‘cricket’ Seabourne (Sports Journalist); Claire B Jenkins (Somerset Cricket); and Hannah Thompson-Radford (HerGameToo & L’boro Univ.) Video highlights from ECB online (NV Play) with match video from Somerset Cricket (for Western Storm) – please see below. Weather was sunny with clear blue sky.

Stars’ innings *Skipper Bryony Smith. [*Natasha Wraith keeping wicket for Storm] *England’s Sophia Dunkley & Alice Davidson-Richards. *Without Sophia Dunkley (injured) or Kira Chathli. *Paige Scholfield opening with Bryony Smith. *Skipper Smith 5(8) was clean-bowled by Orla Prendergast’s in-swing to ‘top of middle’ stump. *Paige Scholfield 4(4) top-edged to Orla Prendergast, ‘planted at mid-on’ from Lauren Filer. *Aylish Cranstone 1(6) mis-cued to Sophia Smale’s diving catch followed by a sideways roll, from Orla Prendergast’s bowling. *Commentators beefed-up Alice Davidson-Richards, ‘who’d hit a century on England Test debut.’ *After six overs PowerPlay, Stars were 22/3. *Alice Capsey’s 12(15) bat ‘turned’ coming down the wicket, caught ‘in the deep,’ by diving Fran Wilson, from Chloe Skelton’s bowling. *Stars were 46/4 by mid-way. *Phoebe Franklin 17(18) was caught by Chloe Skelton from by Alex Griffiths’ 1st ball. *After 100 balls (16.4ov) Stars were 94/5 with 20 balls remaining. *Commentator’s curse struck 2 balls later when the ball struck the inside of Alice Davidson-Richards’ 43(45) boot; appeared to go for ‘four byes;’ but instead signalled out: ‘leg-before.’ *Tash Farrant 32(16) played a short cameo, striking Danielle Gibson for 4 consecutive ‘fours’ exploiting gaps between fielders. *That boosted Stars total past the 100-mark, toward a defendable score.

Storms’ innings *Skipper Sophie Luff [*Bryony Smith keeping wicket for Stars.] *England’s Heather Knight, Naimh Holland (England u-19s) & ex-England’s Fran Wilson. *Ireland International Orla Prendergast retained ‘for a few more weeks.’ *Opener Natasha Wraith launched a ’steepler’ caught by Aylish Cranstone ‘with a look of relief,’ from Phoebe Franklin’s bowling. *Danielle Gibson 12(10) went ‘leg before’ from an inside-edge from her pads to Ryana Macdonald-Gay. *Fran Wilson was beaten ‘beneath her bat,’ bowled by Freya Davies (2/14) with both bales sent flying:- chalking-up a ‘wicket-maiden.’ *After 6 overs PowerPlay Storm were 37/3 (vs 22/3.) Next ball, Heather Knight scooped an edge behind to Bryony Smith, from Paige Scholfield’s 1st ball. *By mid-way, Storm were ahead by the same margin: 58/4 (vs 46/4.) *Drama struck when Storm’s Orla Prendergast 17(18) came down-the-wicket to Danielle Gregory, struck the ball prematurely at waist height, but was caught high by Phoebe Franklin. *Alex Griffiths 3(9) was short-lived, stumped by Bryony Smith, also from Danielle Gregory (2/23.) *After 100 balls (with 20 remaining) Storm were 103/7 (vs 94/5.) *Disaster struck when Naimh Holland 7(8) was ‘run out’ by Alice Davidson-Richards’ throw to Paige Scholfield. *Freya Davies restricted batters to ‘ones’ and ‘twos.’ Lauren Filer 1(2) snicked an edge to keeper Bryony Smith. *Next over, Sophia Smale 1(2) ‘dragged-on,’ clean-bowled by Phoebe Franklin’s first ball. *On 115/9, commentators noticed the ‘cut-off’ time had elapsed, causing Umpires to call-in an extra fielder to ‘save-the-one.’ *Possibly complemented Stars’ tactics to win the match, making gaps between fielders difficult to find. *Top-scorer Sophie Luff (alias ‘captain fantastic,’ according to Somerset cricket commentators) ‘ran out of partners,’ making top-score (43*not out.)

Match summary Both sides lost three early wickets during the PowerPlay. Tight bowling by Orla Prendergast was more than matched by Freya Davies. Orla Prendergast was key to taking all three wickets that reduced Stars to 14/3 after 4 overs PowerPlay. Firstly, clean-bowling skipper Bryony Smith; secondly catching Paige Scholfied from Lauren Filer; and thirdly bowling a wicket maiden when Aylish Cranstone was caught by Sophia Smale. Stars fought back, when Alice Davidson-Richards made Stars’ top score. Tash Farrant played a cameo hitting Danielle Gibson for 4 consecutive ‘fours,’ essential to Stars’ defendable score. Despite Storm’s wealth of batting experience, when Storm replied, six batters departed for single-figures. During the ‘death’ over, Freya Davies restricted Storms batters to ‘ones’ and ‘twos.’ According to commentators, Storm were ‘not quite able’ to win. Western Storm’s match report at URL https://westernstorm.co.uk/news/storm-narrowly-miss-out-in-thriller/

Match result: South East Stars Women 126/6 beat Western Storm Women 121/10 by two wickets.

Stars’ batting: 126/6 (20/20 overs @ 6.3 runs-per-over) Alice Davidson-Richards 43(45), Tash Farrant 32(16), Phoebe Franklin 17(18), Alice Capsey 12(15); Storm bowling: Orla Prendergast 2/12, Alex Griffiths 1/12, Chloe Skelton 1/15, Lauren Filer 1/19, Danielle Gibson 1/41. Fow 1-11, 2-11, 3-14, 4-41, 5-83, 6-95.

Storm’s batting: 121/10 (19.5/20 overs 6.1 r-p-o) Sophie Luff 43*not out (46), Orla Prendergast 17(18), Danielle Gibson 12/10, Natasha Wraith 12(10), Heather Knight 11(9); Stars bowling: Freya Davies 2/14, Phoebe Franklin 2/23, Danielle Gregory 2/23, Ryana Macdonald-Gay 1/8, Paige Scholfield 1/12. Fow 1-20, 2-35, 3-37, 4-37, 5-72, 6-78 7-104, 8-118, 9-110, 10-121.

Scorecard with video highlights, courtesy of ECB via NV Play on YouTube at URL: https://live.nvplay.com/ecb/#m7322652d-e820-4f56-b699-02bc36026261_~scorecard & BBC sport at URL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000511

Full video with fixed cameras without commentary starting from  21m45s/3h20m42s courtesy of Somerset Cricket at URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ayc1YcH7ydo

Stars awarded 4 points. Latest England and Wales Cricket Board tables at URL: https://www.ecb.co.uk/matches/womens-t20/table

‘Champions Day’ spectators watching double-header matches saw both defending champions of the 50-over game: Vipers (women) & Hants (men.) Vipers as hosts made a confident start when both Storm openers offered-up easy catches from shots that commentators said were ‘avoidable.’ Commentators became animated when two wickets fell three balls apart. Firstly, England wannabee Danielle Gibson snicked to Vipers visiting Australian wicket-keeper Nicole Faltum. When England skipper Heather Knight was stumped by Faltum, Storm were reduced to 4/3 during the 2nd over. Commentators’ attention switched to England’s Charlie Dean (pictured), who needed 2 more wickets to equal Tara Norris’ record 51 wickets taken for Vipers ‘all-time’ (in Kia Super League T-20, Charlotte Edwards T-20 and Rachael Heyhoe Flint.) Expectation was rewarded firstly when England veteran Fran Wilson was similarly stumped by Nicole Faltum from Charlie Dean’s 5th ball; Dean equalling Norris’ record. Mid-way through Storm’s innings, Charlie Dean took a second wicket to become Vipers all-time top wicket-taker (Dean said to have taken 52 wickets to date: 22@20overs & 30@50ov.) Commentators were Kevan ‘Kev’ James (BBC radio Solent) and Melissa Story (BBC Sport 5LSX, radio Solent & Glos. Women & Hursley Park.) Video highlights from ECB online (NV Play); with full match video, highlights and post-match interview with Charlie Dean – please see below. Weather at the Ageas Bowl was ‘glorious’ with blue sky

Storm innings *Skipper Sophie Luff with England’s Heather Knight, Naimh Holland (u-19s) & ex-England Fran Wilson.*Republic Of Ireland International Orla Prendergast retained ‘for a few more weeks.’ *International player Nicole Faltum (Australia) keeping wicket for Vipers. *Commentators said that Storm’s top-order batters’ dismissals were ‘avoidable,’ when both openers went from easy catches. *Opener Natasha Wraith drove a ‘half-volley’ too early, caught ‘in-the-covers’ for a 3rd-ball duck by Charlie Dean from Lauren Bell. *Danielle Gibson 2(2) played ‘wide’ of off-stump, risking an inside-edge that carried to guest keeper Nicole Faltum; also from Lauren Bell. *Three balls later, Nicole Faltum expertly stumped England skipper Heather Knight 1(3) who was left stranded ‘far out of her crease’ (from Anya Shrubsole’s bowling 1/12); reducing Storm to 4/3 during the 2nd over. *After 6 overs PowerPlay Storm were 33/3. *Storm’s skipper Sophie Luff with Fran Wilson staged a recovery, until Fran Wilson was stumped by Nicole Faltum from Charlie Dean’s 5th ball. *By mid-way, Storm were 45/4. *Next over, Orla Prendergast 3(12) found Charlie Dean unplayable and went ‘leg before’ – Charlie Dean (2/15) completing a rare ‘wicket maiden;’ also chalking-up her all-time record – as mentioned above. *Alex Griffiths 3(9) was short-lived, Maia Bouchier taking a diving catch ‘just outside the inner ring’ from Georgia Adams. *After 100 balls (with 20 balls remaining) Storm were 85/6. *Next over, Sophie Luff  44(46) was caught at ‘point’ by Linsey Smith, from Lauren Bell (3/19); said to be a ‘soft dismissal.’ *Lauren Filer 12*(18) played innings-anchor, partnered by Niamh Holland 9(5) who attempted a lavish stroke but was bowled ‘middle-and-off’ (stump) by Linsey Smith (1/22) *Lauren Filer 12*not out was also partnered by Sophia Smale 4*(5)

Vipers innings *Skipper Georgia Adams, with England’s Danni Wyatt, Lauren Bell, Maia Bouchier & Charlie Dean; plus player-coach Anya Shrubsole. *Natasha Wraith keeping wicket for Storm. *Orla Prendergast struck with 1st ball ‘Yorker’ when clean-bowling Danni Wyatt 16(7) *After bowling-change, Lauren Filer struck 4th ball, when Nicole Faltum 2(5) was skittled. *After 6 overs PowerPlay Vipers were 50/2 (vs 33/3) & after 10 overs (mid-way) 76/2 (vs 45/4.) *Launching Sophia Smale for ‘six’ Danielle Gibson took a fine catch inside the boundary to deprive Maia Bouchier of her match-winning ‘fifty.’ *Skipper Adams closed 26*not out. *Having earlier been dropped inside the boundary, Georgia Elwiss struck the winning ‘four’ with almost 6 overs to spare.

Match summary Storm lost key batters for fishing outside their off-stump with two avoidable stumpings. Skipper Luff top-scored, staging a recovery, but Storm lacked fire-power; setting a relatively easy target for Vipers to chase down. Viper’s top batter was Maia Bouchier, who was caught when attempting her ‘fifty.’ During the match, commentators announced that Charlie Dean had reached a bowling milestone, becoming Vipers’ ‘all-time’ wicket-taker with 52 wickets (to date) to her name (22@20ov. & 30@50ov.)

Match result: Southern Vipers Women 107/3 (target 106) beat Western Storm Women 105/8 by seven wickets (and with 35 balls remaining)

Storm’s batting: 105/8  (20/20 overs @ 5.25 runs-per-over); Sophie Luff 44(46), Fran Wilson 20(17), Lauren Filer 12*not out(18); Vipers’ bowling: Lauren Bell 3/19, Charlie Dean 2/15, Anya Shrubsole 1/12, Linsey Smith 1/22, Georgia Adams 1/22; Fow 1-0, 2-3, 3-4, 4-35, 5-45, 6-66, 7-87, 8-98.

Vipers’ batting: 107/3 (14.1/20 overs @ 7.55 r-p-o; target 106/20ov); Maia Bouchier 45(41), Georgia Adams 26*not out(25), Danni Wyatt 16(7); Storm’s bowling: Orla Prendergast 1/8, Lauren Filer 1/12, Sophia Smale 1/16; Fow 1-25, 2-48, 3-95.

Scorecard with video highlights, courtesy of ECB via NV Play on YouTube at URL: https://live.nvplay.com/ecb/#cdc38bf13-4f50-4dde-b543-741109226324_m54770383-4723-47cb-8031-6f25fa0b19d6_~scorecard

Full match video, starting from 35m48s/03h06m05s courtesy of Hants CCC (Southern Vipers) on YouTube at URL  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5i75BbNYro4

Post-match Charlie Dean interview courtesy of BBC radio Solent (with Kevan ‘Kev’ James) 02m56s at URL https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i507PstY4V8

Vipers awarded 4 points. Latest England and Wales Cricket Board tables at URL: https://www.ecb.co.uk/matches/womens-t20/table