Sunrisers’ Jodi Grewcock and Nicola Hancock led a dominant bowling performance to secure an emphatic eight-wicket victory over Western Storm in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy opener at Cardiff’s Sophia Gardens.
Hancock’s incisive new-ball spell (3-15) and Grewcock’s economical legbreaks (3-28) restricted Storm to a paltry 114 in 30.4 overs. Mady Villiers (2-36) and Esmae MacGregor (1-10) also contributed to the disciplined bowling display.
Nat Wraith’s valiant 42 was a lone bright spot for Storm, who suffered their fifth consecutive defeat in the 50-over competition.
In response, Sunrisers skipper Grace Scrivens (63*) led by example, anchoring a composed chase alongside Cordelia Griffith (28). The pair shared a 59-run partnership for the second wicket, guiding their team to victory with 16.2 overs to spare.
Sunrisers’ triumph extends their winning streak from last season to five matches, while Storm’s struggles continue. The visitors will seek redemption against Thunder at Sale, while Storm face a tough test against Northern Diamonds at Headingley.
