Blaze Crush Stars by 133 Runs in Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy

The Blaze have continued their dominance over the South East Stars, securing a resounding 133-run victory (DLS method) in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy at Beckenham.

Despite a rain-reduced innings of 44 overs, the Blaze amassed a mammoth 318 for 8, their highest List A score. Sarah Bryce led the charge with a superb 81, while Ella Claridge smashed a career-best 71 from just 45 deliveries. Marie Kelly also contributed a valuable 52.

The Stars' chase was derailed by the brilliance of Heather Graham, who claimed an impressive 6 for 39. Alice Davidson-Richards offered some resistance with a defiant 44, but the Blaze's bowling attack proved too strong.

The victory marks the Blaze's second consecutive triumph over the Stars in a major final, following their success in the Charlotte Edwards Cup just eight days prior.

The Blaze's innings got off to a shaky start with the early dismissal of Teresa Graves. However, the Bryce sisters steadied the ship with a 94-run partnership. Kathryn Bryce was eventually dismissed for 30, but Sarah Bryce continued to anchor the innings.

After a rain delay, Sarah Bryce fell for 81, but Claridge took over the mantle, launching into a blistering attack. She was eventually caught for 71, but not before Michaela Kirk had chipped in with a useful 18.

The Stars' reply began disastrously, with Bryony Smith and Kalea Moore dismissed cheaply. Graham then wreaked havoc, removing Tash Farrant, Emma Jones, Aylish Cranstone, and Alexa Stonehouse in quick succession.

Davidson-Richards provided some hope with her aggressive 44, but her dismissal to Graham sealed the victory for the Blaze. Danni Gregory was the final wicket to fall, caught by Cassidy McCarthy off Graham's bowling.

The Blaze's victory is a testament to their depth and quality. They have now won three of the last four major domestic trophies in England.

Tags: #RachaelHeyhoeFlintTrophy, #Blaze, #SouthEastStars, #SarahBryce, #EllaClaridge