South East Stars secured a crucial victory over Central Sparks in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy, boosting their chances of reaching the semi-finals. Batting first, Stars amassed an impressive 270 all out, thanks to a 127-run partnership between Kira Chathli (80) and Alice Davidson-Richards (70). Katie George and Charis Pavely claimed four and three wickets, respectively, for Sparks.
Sparks’ chase got off to a shaky start, losing four wickets within the first 13 overs. However, Davina Perrin (50), Chloe Brewer (54), and Bethan Ellis (57) staged a valiant recovery, keeping their team in contention. Despite their efforts, Sparks fell short by 20 runs, finishing on 250 for 9.
The victory puts Stars on the brink of a semi-final berth. They need only to win their final game against Northern Diamonds to secure their place in the last four. However, a defeat could potentially see them edged out if Sunrisers manage a bonus-point win over Southern Vipers.
Stars’ innings began with an early wicket, but Alexa Stonehouse and Phoebe Franklin steadied the ship with a 70-run partnership. Chathli and Davidson-Richards then took control, punishing the Sparks bowlers with a flurry of boundaries. George’s three quick wickets slowed Stars’ momentum, but Priyanaz Chatterji’s late cameo ensured a strong total.
Sparks’ top order struggled against the Stars’ bowling attack, with Tilly Corteen-Coleman claiming two early wickets. Perrin’s half-century provided a glimmer of hope, but her dismissal triggered a collapse. Brewer and Ellis rebuilt, but their efforts ultimately proved insufficient.
