In a standout performance at Whangārei on November 16, 2025, Northern Brave Women showcased their skills by outplaying Wellington Blaze in Match 4 of the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield, New Zealand Women’s One Day Competition 2025-26. The result was a decisive 136-run victory that sent a clear message in the tournament.
After winning the toss, Northern Brave opted to bat first, eager to set a challenging target for the opposing side. The innings began with a cautious approach, although captain Jess Watkin was dismissed early, scoring just 2 runs off 4 balls, leaving their side at 4/1. Yasmeen Kareem managed to score 23 runs off 57 balls, and Tash Wakelin contributed significantly with a solid 62 off 83, including six boundaries. Together, they formed a crucial second-wicket partnership that revitalised the team’s momentum, pushing the score to 88 before Kareem was dismissed at 21.4 overs.
Wakelin’s dismissal came at a total of 99 in 26.4 overs, and the Brave continued to build on their foundation through the middle overs, thanks to Caitlin Gurrey (24 off 42) and Nensi Patel (37 off 44), who anchored the innings further. Gurrey was out at 33.3 overs when the score was 132, while Patel was dismissed at 44.2 overs, with the total resting at 190/6. Eve Wolland added 15 runs off 14 deliveries, and Holly Topp contributed 20 runs off 31 balls, both of whom played a vital role in maintaining the pace. Extras, comprising 15 runs (2 leg byes, 13 wides), also played a part in building the total as the Northern Districts were eventually bowled out for 214 in 49.3 overs.
Wellington’s bowling had its moments but struggled to contain the flow of runs. Xara Jetly was notable with her bowling figures of 2 wickets for 39 runs over 10 overs, while Jess Kerr also took 2 wickets but at a cost of 35 runs. Jessica Simmons contributed with two wickets for 34 runs, and Nicole Baird, Hannah Francis, and Rachel Bryant each managed one wicket to support the team. Nevertheless, the total set by Northern Districts was formidable.
When it came time for Wellington to chase, the team found themselves facing immediate challenges. Hannah Francis lasted just one ball, scoring 1 run, followed by Xara Jetly, who only managed 3 runs before being dismissed. The situation grew dire as the team found themselves four wickets down with only 19 runs on the board after 9.3 overs, with Jess Kerr scoring a mere 5 runs in 12 balls. This early collapse proved detrimental to their chase.
Wellington’s batting performance lacked any significant partnerships. Isla McKenzie could only muster 9 runs off 31 balls, and Sam Mackinder added 6 runs from 22 balls, neither lasting long enough to stabilize the innings. The last noteworthy stand came from Natasha Codyre, who scored 10 off 11, alongside Nicole Baird, who remained not out on 17* runs from 55 balls. However, by that point, the required run rate was well beyond their reach. Ultimately, Wellington was bowled out for just 78 runs in 33.5 overs, awarding Northern Districts a massive 136-run victory.
Northern Districts’ bowlers were equally impressive in their performance. Lucy Boucher shone with 10 overs, taking 4 wickets while conceding only 21 runs, with 3 maidens in her spell. Kayley Knight contributed well, taking 2 wickets for just 6 runs in 4 overs. Nensi Patel’s figures were also commendable, with 1 wicket for 14 runs in 4 overs. Sophie Court took 1 wicket for just 7 runs in her 3 overs, and Eve Holland claimed another wicket, allowing only 1 run in the five balls she bowled. The combination of tight lines and timely wickets inflicted heavy damage on Wellington, leading to their overwhelming defeat.
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