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The Blaze's Double Dream in Jeopardy After Sparks Defeat

The Blaze's Double Dream in Jeopardy After Sparks Defeat

The Blaze's hopes of securing a domestic double in women's regional cricket hang in the balance after a disappointing five-wicket defeat to Central Sparks in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy. The result leaves the Charlotte Edwards Cup holders precariously placed in fourth position, with just a one-point advantage over fifth-placed Sunrisers.On a challenging pitch at Chesterfield, The Blaze struggled to find their rhythm, posting a modest total of 166. Michaela Kirk top-scored with a season-best 36, while Kathryn Bryce contributed 33. However, the Sparks' bowling attack, led by Grace Potts' three-wicket haul, kept the Blaze in check.In reply, Central Sparks rode on an unbeaten 57 from Katie George to chase down the target with 52 balls to spare. George anchored the innings, sharing a crucial 53-run partnership with Charis Pavely to guide her team to victory.The defeat leaves The Blaze's semi-final hopes in jeopardy. They must now rely on Sunrisers losing their final match against Southern Vipers to secure a top-four finish. The Sparks, meanwhile, end their campaign on a high note, marking their last appearance as Central Sparks with a win.The result also highlights the impending changes in domestic women's cricket. Trent Bridge-based The Blaze will retain their current identity, while the Sparks will transition to Warwickshire in 50-over cricket and Birmingham Bears in T20.

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The Blaze Triumph Over Thunder in Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy Thriller

The Blaze Triumph Over Thunder in Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy Thriller

The Blaze emerged victorious in a thrilling encounter against Thunder in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy, securing a crucial 24-run victory at Sale. The Blaze's triumph keeps their hopes alive in the competition, while Thunder's defeat dashes their aspirations of reaching the knockout stages.The Blaze's innings got off to a promising start, with Sarah Bryce and Michaela Kirk establishing a solid foundation with a 66-run partnership. However, the introduction of Fi Morris into the Thunder attack proved pivotal, as the spinner's career-best 6 for 35 wreaked havoc on the Blaze's batting lineup.Morris's devastating spell began with the dismissal of Kathryn Bryce, who was caught at gully for 31. She then trapped Orla Prendergast lbw for 29 and Lucy Higham for 4, reducing the Blaze to 135 for 6. Hannah Jones claimed the wicket of Kirstie Gordon, before Morris completed her impressive performance by bowling Ella Claridge, Grace Ballinger, and Cassidy McCarthy.In response, Thunder's chase got off to a disastrous start as Grace Ballinger's impressive left-arm swing dismantled their top order. Ballinger's 4 for 23 included the dismissals of Eve Jones, Alice Clarke, Morris, and Dani Collins, leaving Thunder reeling at 41 for 5.Despite Ballinger's early heroics, Thunder's innings was plagued by a series of unfortunate events. Seren Smale was caught at point off Prendergast, while Ellie Threlkeld and Darcey Carter fell cheaply. Grace Johnson's dismissal left Thunder in dire straits, but a defiant last-wicket partnership of 50 between Tara Norris and Hannah Jones provided a glimmer of hope.Norris's unbeaten 53, which included three sixes, was a testament to her fighting spirit. However, it was not enough to prevent The Blaze from securing victory with 26 balls to spare. Kathryn Bryce claimed the final wicket of Hannah Jones, sealing the win for her team.The Blaze's victory was a testament to their resilience and determination, while Thunder's defeat was a disappointing end to their campaign. The Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy continues to provide thrilling and competitive cricket, with every match having the potential to shape the destiny of the tournament.

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The Blaze Chase Down 246 to Keep Knockout Hopes Alive

The Blaze Chase Down 246 to Keep Knockout Hopes Alive

The Blaze, chasing a target of 246, secured a six-wicket victory over Sunrisers at Derby, keeping their hopes of qualifying for the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy knock-out stage alive. All-rounder Kathryn Bryce played a pivotal role, scoring an unbeaten 87 and claiming four wickets for 41 runs.England's Tammy Beaumont (59) and Sarah Bryce (41) provided a solid foundation for The Blaze's chase, putting on a 76-run opening partnership. Ella Claridge contributed an unbeaten 33 from 27 balls to help Bryce finish things off.For Sunrisers, Cordelia Griffith top-scored with 65, while Eva Gray (37) and Jodi Grewcock (36) made valuable contributions. However, Bryce's bowling prowess proved too much for Sunrisers, as she dismissed Griffith, Gray, and Amara Carr in quick succession.The result was a setback for Sunrisers, who remain in contention for a top-four finish and a semi-final berth. The Blaze, on the other hand, have gained momentum with six wins in their last eight completed matches.

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The Blaze's Bowling Masterclass Keeps Knockout Hopes Alive

The Blaze's Bowling Masterclass Keeps Knockout Hopes Alive

The Blaze's impressive bowling performance propelled them to a crucial 20-run victory over Southern Vipers in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy, keeping their knockout stage hopes alive.Marie Kelly's gritty 40 anchored The Blaze's batting effort on a challenging pitch, while Ava Lee's career-best 4-51 on her 19th birthday proved instrumental in restricting Vipers.The Blaze's innings got off to a shaky start as Sarah Bryce and Georgie Boyce departed cheaply. Kathryn Bryce's six provided a brief respite, but Georgia Elwiss dismissed her to leave The Blaze struggling at 38-3.Kelly emerged as the lone beacon of stability, driving confidently and building partnerships with Prendergast (38) and Gordon (26). However, Vipers' spinners, led by Lee, kept chipping away, dismissing Kelly for 40 and claiming three more wickets in quick succession.Despite Boyce's return from injury, The Blaze's innings ended on 208, with Grace Ballinger contributing a valuable 24.Vipers' chase began promisingly with Rhianna Southby's composed opening stand. However, Prendergast's early strikes put Vipers on the back foot. Gordon's accurate spin bowling further stifled the chase, leading to Southby's run-out.Emily Windsor's patient 41 kept Vipers in contention, but Prendergast's return to the attack proved decisive. Windsor's dismissal triggered a collapse, with Vipers losing five wickets for 21 runs.Linsey Smith's chip to mid-off and Norgrove's stumping left Vipers needing 45 from the last 13 overs. However, Kathryn Bryce's dismissal of Lee sealed the victory for The Blaze.The win keeps The Blaze in the hunt for a knockout spot, while Vipers remain top of the table but missed out on an opportunity to secure their progression.

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The Blaze Triumph Over Western Storm in Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy Thriller

The Blaze Triumph Over Western Storm in Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy Thriller

The Blaze emerged victorious in a thrilling Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy encounter against Western Storm, securing a five-wicket triumph at Cheltenham.Chasing a modest target of 218, The Blaze's pursuit began promisingly with Sarah Bryce's aggressive 61 off 54 deliveries. However, a mid-innings collapse left them reeling at 115 for 5.Enter Lucy Higham and Ella Claridge, who forged an unbeaten 105-run partnership to guide The Blaze to victory with 7.3 overs to spare. Higham's composed 62 off 60 balls and Claridge's steady 43 proved crucial in the chase.Earlier, Western Storm had posted 217 all out in 46.2 overs. Fran Wilson top-scored with 67, while Sophie Luff contributed 31. Kathryn Bryce was the standout bowler for The Blaze, claiming 4 for 20 from 8.5 overs.The victory lifts The Blaze to fifth place in the standings, while Western Storm remain rooted to the bottom after their fifth consecutive defeat in the 50-over format.

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Southern Vipers Triumph Over Blaze in Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy Rematch

Southern Vipers Triumph Over Blaze in Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy Rematch

Southern Vipers extended their dominance in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy, securing a four-wicket victory over the in-form Blaze at Chesterfield. In a rematch of last season's final, Blaze aimed to continue their impressive run of 14 wins in 15 games across competitions. However, Vipers proved to be an insurmountable obstacle once again.Blaze posted a competitive 278 in 47.2 overs, with Heather Graham leading the charge with a well-crafted 78. Kathryn Bryce (65) and Sarah Bryce (48) provided valuable support. Mary Taylor emerged as the standout bowler for Vipers, claiming 3 for 32, including two wickets with successive deliveries.Vipers' chase was anchored by a century partnership between Georgia Elwiss (101 not out) and Abi Norgrove (64). The duo came together at a crucial juncture, with Vipers facing a precarious 124 for 4. Their composed batting guided Vipers to victory with four balls to spare.Blaze's innings began with an early setback as Teresa Graves was run out. However, the Bryce sisters steadied the ship with a 71-run partnership. Sarah Bryce's dismissal brought Marie Kelly to the crease, who formed another productive alliance with Kathryn Bryce. The fourth-wicket pair added 66 runs before falling in quick succession.Ella Claridge and Kirstie Gordon departed in consecutive deliveries to Charli Knott, but Graham revived the innings with a brisk half-century. She found the gaps with ease, particularly on the off side, to keep the scoreboard ticking.Vipers' reply started with the loss of Knott, but skipper Adams steadied the chase with two half-century partnerships. However, Blaze fought back with two wickets in four balls, removing Adams and Emily Windsor.With Vipers facing a potential collapse at 124 for 4, Elwiss and Norgrove stepped up to the plate. They played with composure and skill, accumulating a century partnership to put Vipers back in control. Kathryn Bryce briefly threatened a Blaze comeback with two wickets, but Elwiss remained resolute, reaching her century with a six over mid-wicket to seal the victory.

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The Blaze Triumph in Charlotte Edwards Cup with Bryce Sisters' Heroics

The Blaze Triumph in Charlotte Edwards Cup with Bryce Sisters' Heroics

The Blaze emerged victorious in the Charlotte Edwards Cup final, defeating South East Stars by a commanding seven wickets. Kathryn Bryce, the Scotland skipper, led the charge with a match-winning 62 off 44 balls, while her younger sister Sarah contributed an unbeaten 52 from 46 balls.The Blaze's triumph marked a significant achievement for the team, which had suffered heartbreak in both women's regional competitions last season. Captain Kirstie Gordon's strong leadership played a crucial role in their success, as they avoided a repeat of their defeat to Southern Vipers in the previous year's finals.Despite conceding 22 runs in the first over, The Blaze bowlers displayed discipline and skill to restrict Stars to 141 for 9. Australian allrounder Heather Graham claimed 3 for 16, while legspinner Josie Groves took 3 for 33. Georgia Redmayne top-scored for Stars with 25, but their total proved insufficient on a deteriorating surface.The Blaze's chase began steadily, with Kathryn Bryce and Tammy Beaumont forming a solid opening partnership. However, Beaumont was run out in a moment of brilliance by bowler Tash Farrant. Marie Kelly's dismissal left the score at 49 for 2 after six overs.Undeterred, Kathryn and Sarah Bryce forged a decisive partnership of 79 runs. Kathryn reached her fifth half-century of the competition in just 31 balls, while Sarah completed her own half-century off 45 balls. Kathryn's dismissal brought Graham to the crease, who sealed the victory with a boundary over mid-off.Kathryn Bryce's outstanding performance earned her the distinction of being the competition's leading runscorer, with an impressive tally of 477 runs. The Blaze skipper, Tash Farrant, also emerged as the leading wicket-taker with 22 scalps.

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The Blaze Reach Regional Women's Final with Five-Wicket Win over Central Sparks

The Blaze Reach Regional Women's Final with Five-Wicket Win over Central Sparks

The Blaze secured their spot in the regional women's final for the third consecutive year, triumphing over Central Sparks by five wickets with two overs remaining in the first semi-final of the Charlotte Edwards Cup Finals Day at Derby.Despite Hannah Baker's impressive 3 for 24, the experience of Tammy Beaumont (39 off 31) and Kathryn Bryce (44 off 39) proved crucial for The Blaze. Josie Groves' quickfire 14 off four balls sealed the victory for last year's runners-up.Courtney Webb's unbeaten 45 off 31 balls rescued the Sparks innings from a precarious 93 for 6. Davina Perrin (32 off 17) and Ami Campbell (21 off 14) had provided a solid start with a 54-run partnership in the powerplay. However, Groves' 2 for 16 and Grace Ballinger's 2 for 34 put the brakes on the Sparks' momentum.Campbell's aggressive approach paid off initially, but she was caught at long-on in the sixth over. Perrin's dismissal triggered a collapse, with Sparks losing four wickets for 18 runs. Kathryn Bryce ran out Abbey Freeborn, while Groves bowled Katie George and Charis Pavely.Em Arlott's dismissal left Sparks struggling at 114 for 7, but Webb and Ballinger rallied to finish strongly. The Blaze, in response, plundered 51 runs in their powerplay, despite losing Marie Kelly early. Beaumont and Kathryn Bryce added 57 runs for the second wicket, putting their side in a commanding position.Sparks fought back with the wickets of Beaumont and Sarah Bryce, but Graham's six off Potts left The Blaze needing just 33 runs off the last five overs. Graham's dismissal and Kathryn Bryce's miscue gave Sparks hope, but Groves' three fours off George sealed the victory for The Blaze with two overs to spare.

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South East Stars Crush The Blaze to Advance in Charlotte Edwards Cup

South East Stars Crush The Blaze to Advance in Charlotte Edwards Cup

South East Stars emerged victorious in a dominant five-wicket triumph over The Blaze at Derby, solidifying their aspirations for a second Charlotte Edwards Cup title. The Stars' bowling attack proved formidable, dismissing The Blaze for a mere 84 runs, marking the first defeat in 16 points-table matches for Kirstie Gordon's team since their rebranding from Lightning two years ago.Alexa Stonehouse led the Stars' bowling charge with three wickets for 13 runs, while Ryana MacDonald-Gay, Dani Gregory, and Tilly Corteen-Coleman each claimed two wickets. England's Sarah Glenn top-scored for The Blaze with 21 runs from 24 balls.In response, Emma Jones' unbeaten 30 from just 25 balls guided the Stars to victory with 29 balls to spare. The Blaze's innings had a disastrous start, losing three wickets in the first two overs and a fourth in the fifth. Corteen-Coleman dismissed Tammy Beaumont leg before, while Stonehouse removed Marie Kelly and Sarah Bryce in a double-wicket maiden.Heather Graham's dismissal in the fifth over left The Blaze reeling at 12 for four. Kathryn Bryce and Ella Claridge fell cheaply, and Josie Groves was caught off Gregory's bowling, leaving The Blaze at 66 for 7. Glenn's resistance ended with a bowled dismissal by Corteen-Coleman, and Gordon and Lucy Higham holed out to mid-on.Despite missing key run-getters Paige Scholfield and Sophia Dunkley, the Stars never looked in danger of defeat. They lost Bryony Smith early, but Jones' three boundaries in the 14th over brought the target within reach. Glenn claimed two wickets, but Jones sealed the victory with a six over Gordon's head in the next over.The Stars' triumph sets up a potential rematch with The Blaze in next Saturday's Final on the same ground, with both teams already qualified for the semi-finals.

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