Overview:
Fixture: Southern Vipers v Central Sparks
Competition: Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy
Date: Wednesday 10 May 2023
Game start: 10.30am
Venue: The 1st Central County Ground, Hove
Central Sparks
From the four RHFT games so far, the Sparks have won once, losing twice and most recently, tying with the Thunder. They come into the game against the Vipers, needing a win to push up the table but crucially, improve on the progression they have made through the season so far.
New signing Erin Burns took four wickets and scored over 30 runs on her debut, which was a well-needed boost for the side. As well as Burns, Davina Perrin impressed with bat in hand and Issy Wong and Georgia Davis with the ball.
The Sparks have clearly improved in the field and have more wickets at this stage of the season, than they did back in 2022. Lloyd Tennant’s team go into the game in search of their second win of the campaign so far. Another added plus for the side is that they will welcome batter Amy Jones back into their squad as they take on the Vipers.
Southern Vipers
With the same run of games for the Vipers, they also have a share of the points, but have slightly more wins than the Sparks, sitting four points ahead. The side, led by Charlotte Edwards do have a strong outfit, which has been on show in the games thus far.
Captain Georgia Adams and England star Danni Wyatt are in the ranks, along with opening batter Bouchier, there is a wealth of talent and experience in the visiting team. The Vipers also have a good bowling line-up with Lauren Bell and Charlie Dean in the side. The Vipers have quality through their side, but they have and can come unstuck. The Southern side haven’t played a game since beating the Sparks at Wormsley just over a week ago, with their last game being abandoned due to rain.
Player to watch
With the Vipers having some strong players in their squad, and with the impact experience can have on certain teams, Georgia Adams is a player to watch for the Vipers. Having the experience of batting high in the order, while also taking crucial wickets where you might not expect her to, she will play a key role for Edwards’ side as the Southern side look to make it back-to-back wins.
Adams has posted many runs over the years, and while contributing with ball in hand. The Vipers captain will be looking to post more at Wormsley and trouble the Sparks bowlers.
Head-to-head
In fixtures dating back to 2021 between the two sides, the Vipers have come out on top three times, to the Sparks’ two.
Ticketing information
Tickets for the game are priced at £7 Adults, £3 Youth, and £1 Junior. Entry for the game is valid with a ticket, which you can purchase from Sussex County Cricket club’s website here!
The 1st Central County Ground, Hove.
Central County Ground, The 1st, Eaton Road, Hove, BN3 3AN