In a thrilling encounter at Beckenham, the South East Stars emerged victorious over Central Sparks by a commanding 71-run margin (D/L method) in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy.
Ryana MacDonald-Gay continued her impressive start to the season, claiming 4 for 18 to dismantle the Sparks’ batting lineup. The Maidstone-born seamer has now amassed 12 wickets in just three matches, showcasing her lethal bowling prowess.
Paige Scholfield and Tash Farrant laid the foundation for the Stars’ victory with solid half-centuries. Scholfield contributed 65 runs, while Farrant, captaining the side in Bryony Smith’s absence, scored 54.
However, Hannah Baker of the Sparks staged a remarkable comeback, claiming five wickets in four balls to finish with career-best figures of 5 for 45. The Stars faltered from a promising position of 230 for 3 to 268 all out, but their total proved insurmountable for the Sparks.
The Sparks’ chase never gained momentum, as they lost four wickets for two runs, leaving them reeling at 56 for 2. MacDonald-Gay’s double-wicket-maiden in the 18th over further crippled their hopes.
Eve Jones and Chloe Brewer provided some resistance with a 35-run opening partnership, but the Sparks’ batting collapsed after Brewer’s dismissal. MacDonald-Gay’s brilliance continued as she dismissed Davina Perrin, Eve Jones, and Abi Freeborn in quick succession.
Despite a valiant effort from Issy Wong and Grace Ellis, who put together a 61-run partnership, the Sparks were unable to recover from their early setbacks. With 20 overs remaining, rain forced the players off the field, and with no realistic prospect of a resumption, play was abandoned.
Wong remained unbeaten on 34, while Ellis was 18 not out, but the Stars’ 71-run victory was well-deserved.
