Surrey Stars Reach T20 Finals Day at Old Trafford
Local Pride as Surrey Books Manchester Ticket
Cricket fans across Surrey can celebrate this weekend as the Surrey Stars secured their place at Old Trafford for the T20 Women’s County Cup Finals Day next Sunday. The defending runners-up delivered a commanding performance at Portland Road, defeating Warwickshire Bears by 10 runs in a thrilling quarter-final encounter that showcased the depth of local talent.
The Stars’ batting display was particularly impressive, with contributions across the order. Kira Chathli and Aylish Cranstone both posted half-centuries to build momentum, whilst Jemima Spence’s explosive 36 runs from just 17 balls demonstrated the aggressive cricket that defines modern women’s T20. Surrey’s final total of 200-6 proved decisive, even as Warwickshire mounted a spirited chase led by captain Katie George’s explosive 54 off 35 balls.
For cricket enthusiasts from Guildford to Woking, Dorking through to Horsley and East Horsley, this represents a proud moment for regional women’s cricket. The tournament has grown significantly since Lancashire claimed the inaugural title 15 months ago, and Surrey’s progression underscores the quality of cricket now being developed across the south. Next Sunday’s semi-final against Somerset will determine whether local pride translates into silverware at Manchester.
Essex and Somerset Keep Southern Dreams Alive
Essex and Somerset completed a remarkable south-coast sweep, joining Surrey in securing semi-final spots at Old Trafford. Essex produced a clinical performance at Wantage Road, dismantling Northamptonshire with a commanding nine-wicket victory that highlighted their growing strength in women’s T20 cricket.
The Essex chase was led by Amelia Kemp’s unbeaten 88, supported by an exceptional partnership between Jodi Grewcock (59) and Grace Scrivens (51). Their 113-run unbroken stand epitomised the partnership cricket that wins T20 tournaments, securing victory with 17 balls remaining.
Meanwhile, Somerset’s Sophie Luff produced one of the competition’s standout innings with a devastating 80 off 51 deliveries against Hampshire at Southampton. Her aggressive approach set the tone for Somerset’s 207-7, which ultimately proved too much for the hosts to chase. Hampshire’s 172 all out meant Somerset advanced by 35 runs, demonstrating the clinical finishing that characterises successful T20 teams.
These victories represent significant achievements for both counties’ development programmes. Essex and Somerset’s progression shows how investment in women’s cricket infrastructure is bearing fruit across the south. Community cricket clubs from local pitches now have professional role models showcasing excellence at the highest regional level.
The Blaze Upset Holders; Finals Day Schedule Confirmed
The Nottinghamshire-based Blaze delivered a stunning upset at West Bridgford, comprehensively defeating defending champions Lancashire by 65 runs in a quarter-final that sent shockwaves through the competition. After The Blaze posted 160-8, Lancashire appeared positioned for victory at 52 without loss by the sixth over. What followed was a spectacular collapse orchestrated by incisive bowling from Lucy Higham (3-15) and Josie Groves (4-14), as the visitors tumbled to a humbling defeat.
The result marks a changing of the guard in women’s T20 cricket, with new challengers proving stronger than established powerhouses. Lancashire’s loss is particularly poignant given Kate Cross’s imminent retirement, denying the veteran a final shot at glory in this tournament.
Finals Day takes place at Old Trafford on Sunday, 29 August, with semi-finals kicking off at 11:00 BST (The Blaze v Essex) and 14:30 BST (Somerset v Surrey). The final match begins at 18:45 BST, providing an evening spectacle for supporters travelling from across the south. For cricket-following communities across Surrey and the wider south-east, Sunday represents the culmination of an exciting tournament season. Whether watching live at Manchester or following updates from home, local supporters have every reason to tune in as regional pride goes on the line.
Source: T20 County Cup: Surrey, Essex, Somerset and The Blaze make Finals Day
