Bell, Villiers Fire as Southern Brave Cruise to Opening Win Over Manchester Originals

Bell, Villiers Fire as Southern Brave Cruise to Opening Win Over Manchester Originals

Southern Brave began their new era without long-time coach Charlotte Edwards in style, sealing a commanding six-wicket win over Manchester Originals in their Women’s Hundred opener at Emirates Old Trafford.

Led by a stellar bowling performance, Brave restricted the home side to a modest 95 for 8 from their 100 balls. Lauren Bell starred with the ball, taking 3 for 28, while off-spinner Mady Villiers chipped in with 2 for 19 to leave the Originals struggling from the outset.

Despite a valiant effort from Seren Smale, who top-scored with an unbeaten 40 off 34 deliveries, the Originals’ total never looked competitive. The pitch proved tricky throughout, but Brave’s bowlers applied consistent pressure, leaving the batters with little room to build momentum.

No team has ever defended fewer than 109 in the history of the Women’s Hundred, and the Originals' sub-par score fell well short of posing any real challenge.

In reply, Brave’s chase was steady rather than spectacular, but always under control. South African opener Laura Wolvaardt, formerly of the Originals and now a direct signing for Brave, anchored the innings with a composed, unbeaten 42. She was well-supported by Danni Wyatt-Hodge, who contributed a fluent 32.

The visitors reached their target with 11 balls to spare, finishing on 96 for 4, and securing a morale-boosting victory to kickstart their campaign under new head coach Luke Williams. After finishing a disappointing eighth last season with just one win, Brave will take heart from this confident start.

Speaking after being named Meerkat Match Hero, Lauren Bell said:
"It's great to get our first win on the board. In tournament cricket it's really important to get a good start, and it was a good team performance. The girls stuck in. The wicket was a bit tricky but we've got a great line-up and the batters did the job."

She added, "We've had a lot of really good chats about being really confident, backing our strengths, and having fun out there."

For Manchester Originals, it was a disappointing beginning to their campaign, with Smale’s innings the only real bright spot. They’ll look to bounce back quickly when they face Oval Invincibles at the Kia Oval on Saturday.

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