Teenager Corteen-Coleman Inspires Stars to Six-Wicket Win

In a thrilling encounter at the Seat Unique Riverside, South East Stars emerged victorious over Northern Diamonds in the Charlotte Edwards Cup, thanks to a remarkable bowling performance from 16-year-old Tilly Corteen-Coleman.

Diamonds, who won the toss and elected to bat, made a promising start with openers Leah Dobson and Lauren Winfield-Hill putting on a 50-run partnership. However, the Stars' bowlers struck back with a vengeance, led by Corteen-Coleman's sensational spell.

The teenager, who was only called up to the Stars' senior squad in April, picked up career-best figures of 5 for 19, including wickets from four consecutive balls. Her victims included key batters Sterre Kalis and Erin Burns, leaving Diamonds reeling at 88 for 4.

The collapse continued as Diamonds lost their last six wickets for just 36 runs, with Corteen-Coleman completing her hat-trick in the final over. Dobson top-scored for Diamonds with a well-made 55, but her efforts were in vain as the hosts were bowled out for a paltry 124.

In reply, the Stars made a confident start with Sophia Dunkley smashing a six in the third over. However, Diamonds fought back with Slater removing Dunkley for 25. Despite the wicket, the Stars continued to chase down the target with ease, aided by several dropped catches from Diamonds.

Bryony Smith anchored the chase with an unbeaten 60, guiding her side to a six-wicket victory with four overs to spare. The win was the Stars' third in the competition, while Diamonds remain winless after four matches.

Corteen-Coleman's performance was the highlight of the match, showcasing her immense potential as a future star of English cricket. Her ability to bowl with accuracy, variation, and pace proved too much for Diamonds, who were unable to recover from her devastating spell.

Tags: #CharlotteEdwardsCup, #SouthEastStars, #NorthernDiamonds, #TillyCorteenColeman, #BowlingPerformance