The Wellington Blaze have won the Super Smash women’s cricket title, defeating the Otago Sparks in a low-scoring final at Basin Reserve in Wellington.
The Blaze batted first but managed only 104 runs for eight wickets in their 20 overs. Despite this, they defended their total well, holding the Sparks to 96 for nine and winning by eight runs.
The match remained tense until the final over, with the Sparks needing 20 runs to win. They fought hard but fell short on the second-to-last ball, allowing the Blaze to celebrate their victory. Australian player Hannah Darlington was the standout performer, scoring 26 runs and taking four wickets for just 16 runs. Fellow Aussie Maitlan Brown also contributed with both bat and ball.
Blaze captain Amelia Kerr played a key role, taking two wickets to keep the Sparks in check. For Otago, Felicity Robertson was their best performer, taking three wickets for 16 runs and remaining unbeaten on 29 runs.
The loss was especially tough for the Sparks, who had been strong throughout the competition and hoped to win the title for their retiring coach, Craig Cumming. However, the Blaze, playing at home, proved too determined to be denied the championship.
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