Trent Rockets Secure 31-Run Victory Over London Spirit in Women’s Hundred

The Trent Rockets revitalized their campaign in the women's Hundred with a decisive 31-run victory over the London Spirit at Trent Bridge. This win bolsters their chances of reaching the knockout stages after a series of defeats.

Batting first, the Rockets posted a formidable 158-5 from their 100 balls. The innings was anchored by openers Grace Scrivens and Bryony Smith, who shared a record-breaking 74-run partnership, the highest of this year's competition. Scrivens top-scored with 55 off 43 balls, marking her first half-century in the Hundred, while Smith contributed a rapid 34 off 22 balls before an unfortunate run-out at the non-striker’s end.

After Smith’s dismissal, Scrivens continued to lead the charge until she was bowled by Sarah Glenn. The Rockets managed to maintain a steady flow of runs, setting a challenging target for the Spirit.

In response, the London Spirit struggled against the Rockets’ spin attack. Ash Gardner struck early, taking two wickets in two balls, reducing the Spirit to 21-2 after 23 balls. Gardner finished with impressive figures of 3-23. Alana King also shone with the ball, matching Gardner’s figures by dismissing Spirit captain Heather Knight, who had offered some resistance with 29 off 20 balls.

Despite a valiant unbeaten 30 off 23 balls from Deepti Sharma, the Spirit fell short, ending their innings at 127-7 from their 100 balls.

This victory halts the Rockets' three-match losing streak and moves them into fifth place on the table, just one spot behind the Spirit. The Rockets will be looking to build on this performance as they aim for a place in the knockout stages.

Scorecard Highlights:

Trent Rockets:

• 158-5 (100 balls)
• Grace Scrivens: 55 (43 balls)
• Bryony Smith: 34 (22 balls)
• Deepti Sharma: 2-25

London Spirit:

• 127-7 (100 balls)
• Heather Knight: 30 (23 balls)
• Ash Gardner: 3-23
• Alana King: 3-23

The match at Trent Bridge showcased excellent batting from the Rockets' openers and effective spin bowling from Gardner and King, ensuring a well-rounded team performance and a much-needed win for the Trent Rockets.