Devon Women came out on top against Suffolk after a nervy finish in the second round of the Vitality T20 Women's County Cup.

Heavy rain delayed the start to 2:15pm and, after restricting Suffolk to 66-7 in their rain-reduced 14 overs, Devon stumbled in the chase before two late boundaries helped us home with two balls to spare.

Suffolk's innings never gained momentum as Devon's attack struck at regular intervals. Eliza Heard (2-10) set the tone with two early wickets, including a wicket maiden, while Ellie Bishop (2-13) and skipper Steph Hutchins (2-18) kept the pressure on. Only Sophie Hughes (12) and Olivia Hyndman (10) reached double figures, with Suffolk's total boosted by 13 extras. Jojo Baylis’ miserly spell (2-0-5-0) stifled any late momentum.

Devon's reply was far from straightforward. Jemima Vereker (18 off 22) anchored the chase after early strikes from Maddy Reynolds (2-6) and Sophie Hughes (1-6) left the home side at 15-3. Amelie Clarke (2-16) removed Vereker and Georgia Read (6) to reignite Suffolk's hopes, but Hollie Perkin (7) and Ella Gill (7) held their nerve in a close finish, sealing victory in the final over for the second time in a week.

Scorecard

Devon Women 67/6 (J Vereker 18, K Donovan 13; M Reynolds 2-6, A Clarke 2-16)

Suffolk 71ao (S Hughes 12, O Hyndman 10; E Heard 2-10, E Bishop 2-13, S Hutchins 2-18)

Devon Women beat Suffolk by 4 wickets.

Sean Day's Post-Match Thoughts

"A wonderful game of cricket with both teams giving their all to the end. We're super proud of the team as they showed so much resilience and determination to get over the line.

"We set up the win with a superb bowling and fielding performance, with everyone executing our plans perfectly. The batters dug in and did their job to get us into the third round."

Steph Hutchins' Post-Match Thoughts

"It was great to see the wickets being shared around, it really shows how disciplined our bowlers are.

"It's never an easy chase with a low total, but partnerships were key to help see us over the line."

Up Next

Devon Women face Bears (Warwickshire) in Round 3 of the Vitality T20 Women's County Cup on Sunday, 18 May at Budleigh Salterton CC.