Sunrisers’ trio of Grace Scrivens, Cordelia Griffith, and Jodi Grewcock propelled the team to a maiden Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy final appearance with a dominant seven-wicket victory over Northern Diamonds.
Chasing 233 at Headingley, Sunrisers’ openers Scrivens and Jo Gardner laid a solid foundation with a 70-run partnership. Scrivens, who captained the side, notched up 56 runs off 73 deliveries, including a towering six over long-on.
After Gardner’s dismissal, Griffith took charge, scoring a season-best 68 off 89 balls. Her innings featured an array of shots, including a memorable cut for four off Katie Levick and a six over square-leg off Rachel Slater.
Grewcock, who also registered a season-best score of 63 not out off 68 balls, joined Griffith in a crucial 134-run partnership for the third wicket. Their alliance effectively sealed the victory for Sunrisers in the 44th over.
Northern Diamonds, aiming for their fourth 50-over final, had posted a competitive 232 for 8. Opener Emma Marlow led the way with a measured 63, while Sterre Kalis contributed 49 and Phoebe Turner chipped in with a late 32 not out.
Sunrisers’ bowlers, led by Kate Coppack and Grewcock, kept the Diamonds in check throughout the innings. Coppack conceded only 29 runs from her 10 overs, while Grewcock took one wicket and conceded 26 runs in eight overs.
Despite the absence of key seamer Sophie Munro, who left the field injured after bowling just two overs, Sunrisers cruised to victory with eight RHF Trophy wins this season, surpassing their combined total of six wins in the first four seasons of regional cricket.
Sunrisers will now face South East Stars in the final at Leicester next Saturday, aiming to cap off a remarkable season with their first RHF Trophy title.
