This is a massive mid-table clash in the ECB Women’s One Day Cup 2026. Lancashire are currently 3rd with 5 points from two games, coming off a mixed start but staying well within striking distance of the top. Somerset, however, have been clinical; they’ve only played one game so far but won it convincingly, sitting in 4th with 4 points. A win for Somerset would see them leapfrog the Red Rose side, making this a pivotal fixture for the top-four race.
Squads:
Lancashire Women’s Cricket Team
Danielle Collins, Emma Lamb, Eve Jones, Katie Mack, Liberty Heap, Darcey Carter, Kate Cross, Sophie Ecclestone, Mahika Gaur, Grace Potts, Fi Morris, Eleanor Threlkeld, Seren Smale, Grace Johnson, Alisa Lister, Alana King, Hannah Jones, Olivia Bell, Phoebe Graham, Sophie Morris, Tara Norris
Somerset Women’s Cricket Team
Emma Corney, Fran Wilson, Heather Knight, Jess Hazell, Rebecca Odgers, Sophie Luff, Amanda-Jade Wellington, Danielle Gibson, Erin Vukusic, Lola Harris, Niamh Holland, Olivia Barnes, Amelie Munday, Katie Jones, Alex Griffiths, Charlie Dean, Chloe Skelton, Ellie Anderson, Laura Jackson, Mollie Robbins
Players to watch out:
Gaby Lewis
Gaby has started the 2026 campaign in blistering form, currently sitting near the top of the run-scoring charts. Her magnificent 131 off 116 balls for Lancashire Thunder against Durham was a masterclass in aggressive opening batting, featuring 16 fours. She’s currently averaging 69.00 in the tournament with a strike rate of over 100, making her one of the most dangerous players in the league.
Sophie Luff
A stalwart of the domestic game, Sophie continues to be the backbone of the Somerset batting lineup. She played a captain’s knock of 76* from 101 balls in a tight chase against Yorkshire, ensuring her side crossed the line. Her experience in managing run chases is invaluable, and she remains one of the most technically sound batters in the competition.
Emma Lamb
Emma is a dual threat for Lancashire, contributing significantly with both bat and ball. She recently turned a game on its head against Durham, picking up 4 wickets for just 29 runs with her clever spin. On the batting front, she’s already posted a solid 77 from 98 balls, showing the same consistency that has made her a regular in the England setup.
Alex Griffiths
Alex has made an immediate impact with the ball this season, particularly in the match against Yorkshire. She tore through the batting order to finish with impressive figures of 4 for 22 from nearly nine overs. Her ability to swing the ball early on makes her a constant threat to opening batters and a vital asset for Somerset.
Pitch:
Historically known as the fastest track in England, Old Trafford offers genuine pace and bounce that keeps fast bowlers interested early on. However, it is also a batting paradise in the first innings, and its abrasive nature means it frequently provides significant assistance to spinners as the match progresses.
Weather:
The conditions in Manchester looks a bit damp, with light rain expected and a high of 12°C. Winds will be slightly stronger here at 11 mph from the west.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Emma Lamb, Eve Jones, Katie Mack, Mahika Gaur, Grace Potts, Tara Norris, Sophie Luff, Amanda-Jade Wellington, Danielle Gibson, Alex Griffiths, Mollie Robbins
Match Details:
Date – April 18, 2026
Time – 3:00 PM IST
Venue – Old Trafford, Manchester
Broadcast – The ECB app, website, and YouTube channels.
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