Stockport Georgians win inaugural Thunder Cup final
On the same day (Sunday 21 September) as Lancashire Women completed an historic double by winning the Metro Bank One-Day Cup at the Utilita Bowl, Emirates Old Trafford hosted the inaugural Thunder Cup Final between Leigh CC and Stockport Georgians CC, a first for two women’s club sides to have played a competitive fixture at the venue.
It was Stockport Georgians that came out on top, producing a disciplined all-round performance to secure an emphatic eight-wicket victory over Leigh CC in the Final.
Leigh batted first after losing the toss, but their innings never gained momentum after early wickets fell in their innings. Peyton Hulme top-scored with 22 from 67 deliveries, while Rachael Walsh’s 17 and brief cameos from Hope Longworth and Sophie Heaton offered some resistance but they were eventually bowled out for 92.
Stockport Georgians’ bowlers were relentless throughout the innings.
Amelie Batey returned an excellent 3/15 in nine overs and was well supported by Amelia Sammons who took 3/35 from her eight overs, whilst Holly Batey added 2/8 from six overs.
Chasing 93, Stockport Georgians made light work of the target. Despite losing Tess Bailey for 18 and Skye Thomas for 15, the visitors maintained control of the match thanks to a fluent knock from opener Hannah Wilke.
Wilke finished unbeaten on 46 from just 36 balls, striking eight boundaries and scoring at better than a run a ball, as Stockport cruised towards their target.
Congratulations to Stockport Georgians who lifted the trophy, presented by Lancashire Cricket Board Member and former player and captain, John Abrahams.