Northern Brave put on a remarkable display to defeat Canterbury Magicians in the 29th match of the Women’s Super Smash 2025-26, held in Christchurch. From the very beginning, Northern Brave took control of the match with aggressive batting and disciplined bowling.
The innings kicked off with an explosive opening partnership, led by captain Jess Watkin, who set the tone with a brisk 23 runs off just 11 balls, including four boundaries and a six. Tash Wakelin provided solid support, scoring 19 off 10 balls as they raced to 42 for the first wicket during the powerplay. Unfortunately, Wakelin fell with 42 on the board in the 3.1 over, followed quickly by Watkin two balls later, but they had already put Canterbury on the defensive.
Eve Wollard didn’t manage to score, but Caitlin Gurrey and Nensi Patel then built the most crucial partnership of the innings. Gurrey anchored the middle overs with a steady 38 runs off 33 balls, while Patel shone brightly, scoring a superb 57 off 43 balls with four boundaries and a six. Their partnership pushed Northern Brave past the 100-run mark, creating a solid foundation for the innings. Marina Lamplough contributed with a quick 11 runs off 6 balls, although Carol Agafili was dismissed without scoring.
On the bowling side, the Magicians fought hard, with Lauren Smith leading the attack and finishing with impressive figures of 3 for 23 in her four overs. Lea Tahuhu also made valuable contributions with 2 for 24, while Abigail Hotton took 1 for 21. Although Melissa Banks and Sarah Asmussen didn’t take wickets, they bowled critical spells during the powerplay and at the death.
As they chased the target, Canterbury Magicians struggled against the disciplined Northern Brave. Kate Anderson managed 9 runs off 10 balls, but early wickets put them in a difficult position. Naomi Stalenberg and Izzy Sharp were dismissed cheaply, leaving Canterbury at a precarious 24 for 3. Jodie Dean and Kate Irwin tried to stabilise things, managing 13 off 15 and 18 off 20, respectively, but both fell as the required run rate kept climbing.
Lauren Smith added a modest 10 off 10 balls, but captain Lea Tahuhu was dismissed for a duck, further dampening Canterbury’s hopes. Melissa Banks fought back with a commendable 38* off 28 balls, hitting four boundaries and a six. However, she struggled to find support from the lower order, with Abigale Gerken scoring 7 off 12 balls before being dismissed, and Abigail Hotton finishing unbeaten on 1. Ultimately, the Magicians fell well short of the target.
Northern Brave’s bowling unit was led by Marama Downes, who delivered an exceptional performance with figures of 2 for 14 in four overs. Nensi Patel also made a mark with 2 for 11 in just two overs, while Kayley Knight contributed 2 for 17. Jess Watkin and Eve Wollard each took a wicket, consistently applying pressure throughout Canterbury’s innings.
In a strong show of team effort, Northern Brave clinched a decisive 48-run victory, solidifying their position in the Women’s Super Smash standings. The match showcased the depth and balance of Northern Brave, with standout performances from Nensi Patel and the efficient bowling attack playing a crucial role in their triumph.
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