The Blaze Women edged out Lancashire Women by 6 runs via the D/L method in a closely fought encounter during Match 8 of the ECB Women’s One-Day Cup 2026 in Nottingham on April 15. The contest featured steady rebuilds, key partnerships, and timely breakthroughs before rain ultimately determined the result.
Lancashire Women Build Competitive Total
Lancashire began cautiously but lost Eve Jones for 19 at 1-41 in 11.4 overs. Emma Lamb then anchored the innings, bringing stability through partnerships. Gaby Lewis contributed 7 as the score moved to 2-60, before Seren Smale added 26 off 28 balls, helping maintain momentum until her dismissal at 3-99 in 22.5 overs.
The key phase came through a strong stand between Lamb and captain Eleanor Threlkeld. Lamb led the effort with a composed 77 off 98 balls, including six boundaries, while Threlkeld added 37 off 50 balls. Their partnership carried Lancashire to 4-176 in 36.2 overs before Lamb was dismissed.
Contributions from Fi Morris (13), Ailsa Lister (6), and Kate Cross (1) kept the innings progressing despite regular wickets. Late runs from Tara Norris (10 off 10) and Grace Potts (7* off 11) lifted Lancashire to 223 in 48.3 overs.
Grace Ballinger was the standout bowler for The Blaze, finishing with 3/30 in her 10 overs. Kirstie Gordon and Charley Phillips claimed two wickets each, while Kathryn Bryce, Lucy Higham, and Georgia Elwiss picked up one apiece.
The Blaze Hold Nerve in Rain-Affected Chase
The Blaze’s chase began poorly with Sarah Bryce run out for 1 in the opening over. Marie Kelly and Kathryn Bryce rebuilt with a steady partnership, taking the score to 2-68 in 16.2 overs. Kelly scored 44 off 64 balls, while Kathryn Bryce made 35 off 51.
Momentum shifted again as Georgia Elwiss fell for 3 at 3-78, followed by Kelly’s dismissal at 4-120 in 24.4 overs. Orla Prendergast then played a crucial innings of 40 off 36 balls, keeping the chase alive before departing at 5-140 in 27.4 overs.
In the closing stages, Emma Jones (10* off 9) and Ella Claridge (2* off 2) guided The Blaze to 148/5 in 28.3 overs under the D/L method, sealing a narrow victory.
Lancashire Bowlers Put Up Fight
Lancashire’s bowlers remained competitive throughout. Tara Norris and Hannah Jones claimed a wicket each, while Grace Potts also picked up one. Emma Lamb added another wicket to her all-round effort, and Kate Cross delivered an economical spell of 0/26 in 7 overs.
Composure Proves Decisive
The Blaze’s ability to stay composed during a rain-affected chase proved decisive. Their balanced contributions with both bat and ball ensured they secured a hard-fought win in challenging conditions.
