On July 17th, Devon played Somerset at North Molton Cricket Club. Matches between the two sides over the years have nearly always been close, and this game not only produced excellent cricket, but it also had the tightest of finishes.

Devon won the toss and asked Somerset to bat on a wicket that had been affected by rain over the previous few days. All of Devon’s seamers bowled well and produced economical spells. It was particularly pleasing to see Emily Ward, in her first match at U17 level, taking one for 11 in her 5 over spell. Lauren Schrubsole was Somerset’s top scorer with a cautious 25.

In reply, Devon’s openers began well. However, Somerset’s two spinners were able to initially slow the run rate down and then take five wickets. Lauren Schrubsole and Kate Randall bowled 18 overs in tandem and only gave away 33 runs, with Kate Randall taking four for 16. After the spinners completed their spells wickets continued to fall but the last pair was able to take Devon to victory.

Becca Donohue was woman of the match for Devon for taking 1 for 13 in 9 overs and then calmly taking Devon to victory with 8 not out. Kate Randall was Somerset’s woman of the match for her excellent 9 over spell of 4 for 16.