The Blaze Women concluded their successful group stage run with another victory, largely due to the stellar performance of Ireland's international all-rounder, Orla Prendergast. Following her solid 67 runs in the previous match, Prendergast showcased her bowling skills by taking 3 wickets for 43 runs in 9 overs.
Prendergast consistently took wickets, preventing the middle order from establishing any significant rhythm. She broke the largest partnership of the game, a 59-run stand, by dismissing Liberty Heap to claim her first wicket.
Scotland international and Blaze teammate Kathryn Bryce complimented her by picking 1-34 in 8.4 overs conceding runs at 3.92 ER. She claimed the last wicket to bundle Essex out for 211. Rain interrupted the chase, and The Blaze were declared winners by 35 runs via the DLS method, having been 59-0 after 11.2 overs, ahead of the DLS par score.
The Blaze secured second place, despite finishing level on points with Hampshire due to Net Run Rate. This sets up a home semi-final against Lancashire on Tuesday. Lancashire, who remained in third after their final league game against the leaders was washed out, will face a highly anticipated semi-final clash featuring Ireland stars Gaby Lewis and Prendergast.
Sterre Kalis tastes success with Yorkshire
Elsewhere Netherlands batter, Sterre Kalis won the Women’s One Day Cup League Two as Yorkshire breezed past Glamorgan at Worcester. Rain saw the match reduced to a 20-over encounter with Glamorgan putting up 127-5. Kalis didn’t have much to contribute with the bat in the finals as she came onto bat with one run required. Subsequently, it came via a wide. Yorkshire managed to chase the total in 11.2 overs which saw them crowned champions.
Kalis played a crucial role in the team's success with 65* in the semi finals against Essex.
