Giselle Ansley receiving her

Woman of the Match Award

Devon U17 Girls played their first match in the ECB U17 2009 Women's West League at Budleigh Salterton Cricket Club's picturesque ground on Friday May 29 th . Their opponents were Somerset U17 Girls – National Champions in 2008.

Devon batted first against a strong Somerset bowling attack that was backed up by sharp fielding. Giselle Ansley in two important partnerships with Nicole Richards and Jodie Dibble steered Devon to 151 for 6 in 45 overs. Giselle's innings of 71 contained shots all around the wicket and was scored off 84 balls.

In reply Somerset struggled against Devon 's varied attack of eight bowlers. Two superb catches accounted for Somerset 's two main batsmen. The wicketkeeper, Amara Carr, took an outstanding diving catch to her right and Nicole Richards took a sharp caught and bowled to dismiss Somerset 's top scorer, Frances Wilson. Somerset were all out for 94 in the 40 th over. The wickets were shared around with Rebecca Piddock taking 3 for 6 and Tessa Dibble 2 for 13. Rebecca Donohue took three catches.

Giselle Ansley won the “women of the match” award for her 71 runs and tight bowling spell of one for 11 in 6 overs at the start of Somerset 's innings.