The first game of the season for the Bears saw Warwickshire take on Sussex at home at Portland Road. With a cloud laden sky, the rain looming and a damp outfield, it was an important toss to win. Fortunately the toss went Warwickshire’s way and they elected to bowl.
Kate Green and Laura Crofts got the Bears off to a flying start leaving Sussex struggling on just 13-3 off the PowerPlay overs; the third wicket falling due to a diving catch at cover by Marie Kelly, to remove the wicket of Sussex newcomer Dannielle Wyatt. Kelly and Hennessy bowled tight lines but Schofield and Adams steadied the ship with a partnership of 68 before off spinner Georgia Davis bowled Schofield for 20. Adams continued to score despite losing Phelps and Burt leaving Sussex on 100-6 off 26 overs. Warwickshire put the foot on the gas and removed the vital wicket of Adams for 45 caught and bowled by Rebecca Grundy. With sharp fielding and timely bowling changes, Warwickshire restricted Sussex to 126 all out.
In came skipper Marie Kelly with the Bears needing 49 to win. With just 30 runs left to seal the victory
Out to bat, the Bears started off with a good run rate before Jones was bowled by Tara Norris. Overseas player Anna Lanning stepped to the crease and a partnership of 67 developed between her and opener Mina Zahoor. Lanning was dismissed for 29 with the score at 83-2 off 19 overs. Georgia Hennessy took to the crease but was unfortunately dismissed lbw by Ellen Burt. In came skipper Marie Kelly with the Bears needing 49 to win. With just 30 runs left to seal the victory, opener Mina Zahoor was removed by an excellent catch at slip by Adams for 39. Warwickshire newcomer Megan Janman joined Kelly, with Kelly scoring a quick fire 31* to ease Warwickshire to victory by 6 wickets in the 28th over.
Warwickshire gained the full 18 points for the game – a great start to an optimistic season for the Warwickshire Women!
