Vipers Triumph Over Diamonds in Thrilling Charlotte Edwards Cup Clash
On June 14th, 2024, the Southern Vipers delivered a thrilling performance to secure a five-wicket victory over the Northern Diamonds in the Charlotte Edwards Cup. The match, played at Chester le Street, saw the reigning champions overcome a spirited effort from the Diamonds, who were led by birthday girl Hollie Armitage’s unbeaten 69.
Opting to bat first, the Diamonds got off to a shaky start as opener Emma Marlow was dismissed in the first over. However, Armitage and Sterre Kalis steadied the innings, forging a crucial 66-run partnership. Kalis and Erin Burns fell in quick succession, but Bess Heath’s cameo of 29 not out, which included a switch-hit and a powerful six, helped the Diamonds post a respectable total of 145 for 4.
In the chase, the star-studded Vipers lineup found themselves in trouble at 29 for 4, with Rachel Slater and Erin Burns causing problems with their bowling. But Charlie Dean, the Vipers’ backyard cricket and beach cricket specialist, rose to the occasion with a match-winning knock of 64 off just 38 balls. Her masterful display of attacking batting, which included nine boundaries, helped the defending champions reach their target with seven balls to spare.
“Despite Armitage’s classy and unbeaten 69, the Diamonds’ hopes of securing a play-off berth in the Charlotte Edwards Cup were dashed, as the Vipers’ five-wicket victory cemented their position as the team to beat in the competition.”
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