Lancashire Thunder’s Katie Mack and Fi Morris orchestrated a dominant victory over Sunrisers in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy, securing a commanding 142-run triumph at Emirates Old Trafford.
Mack’s scintillating century and a record-breaking 191-run partnership with Morris propelled Thunder to a formidable total of 292 for 5. Despite losing early wickets, the duo’s exceptional batting prowess and aggressive running between the wickets proved unstoppable.
Mack’s innings showcased her versatility, with an array of ramps, sweeps, and late cuts. Morris, on the other hand, displayed her power and finesse, frequently stepping down the pitch to meet the spinners’ deliveries. Their partnership surpassed 100 runs, setting a new record for the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy.
Morris’ dismissal for 89 by Kate Coppack failed to dampen Thunder’s momentum. Mack reached her century with a trademark late cut, before being stumped for 100. Ellie Threlkeld and Sophie Ecclestone extended the score to 285, with Ecclestone contributing a breezy 24.
Sunrisers faced an insurmountable task in chasing down the target. Kate Cross’s economical spell of 5 overs for 8 runs and the wicket of Ariana Dowse set the tone. Grace Scrivens’ struggles and the dismissals of Cordelia Griffith and Mady Villiers further hindered their progress.
Grewcock provided a glimmer of hope with a resilient 38, but her dismissal by Hannah Jones and the subsequent fall of Florence Miller left Sunrisers reeling. Ecclestone claimed her third wicket with the dismissal of Nicola Hancock, while Cross wrapped up the tail, dismissing Joanne Gardner and Coppack without scoring.
Thunder’s victory was a testament to the brilliance of Mack and Morris, who laid the foundation for their team’s success. Sunrisers, on the other hand, will need to regroup and find a way to overcome their batting woes in their upcoming matches.
