Match Report: Devon Women beat Berkshire by 4 wickets

Devon Women clinched a four-wicket victory over Berkshire in their opening game of the Metro Bank One Day Cup thanks to a superb all-round performance at an overcast Budleigh Salterton.

A wet outfield caused by heavy rainfall the previous few days delayed proceedings by an hour, reducing the number of overs to be bowled by each team to 42.

Having elected to field, Devon's bowlers dominated early as Katie Donovan produced a devastating spell, ripping through Berkshire's top order with a sensational 5-28. The visitors slumped to 19-4 before Freya Johnson (28) and Sarah Pearson (23*) offered resistance. However, disciplined bowling from Ella Gill (2-21) and Eva Lewis (1-11) ensured Berkshire were dismissed for 147 in 37 overs.

In reply, Devon's chase stuttered early as Freya Johnson (2-26) quickly removed openers Jemima Vereker and Elle Golsworthy. But Ellie Bishop anchored the innings with an unbeaten 63, combining patience and composure in a match-winning knock. A crucial 64-run stand with Regina Lilii (28) steadied the ship before a late contribution from Ella Gill (8*) saw Devon home at 151-6 in 40 overs.

Scorecard

Devon Women 151/6 (E Bishop 63*, R Lilii 28; F Johnson 2-26, A Downer 1-9)

Berkshire 147ao (F Johnson 28, S Pearson 23; K Donovan 5-28, E Gill 2-21)

Devon Women beat Berkshire by 4 wickets.

David Joseph's Post-Match Thoughts

"A really positive start to the season and a good all-round team performance. Special mention to Katie leading the bowling attack with a five-for and Ellie seeing the team home with a 63 not out. Lots to build for the season, an encouraging performance starting with things we can look to develop moving forward.

"From the whole squad, a huge thank you to Budleigh Salterton for their hospitality at our new home ground."

Steph Hutchins' Post-Match Thoughts

"We have had a really good start to the season. We played to our strengths as a team and didn't have to move away from our original plan.

"Katie really set the tone with early wickets, and Jojo followed this by creating chances. Everyone followed after, and even when they built a partnership, everyone fought hard and tried what we could to take a crucial wicket. It was only fitting that Katie came back on for her 5th wicket to break the partnership.

"After a lovely Easter Sunday roast at tea our openers, Elle and Jemima, got the scoreboard started. It was not long till Ellie took to the crease and began her match-winning, well-delivered performance. We had a great partnership between Gee and Ellie, which put us in a great position to win the game.

"Having three debuts in Elle, Megan, and Abbie sometimes can be tough; however, all three showed why they are good enough to play in the side throughout the day. They were an asset to the side at the weekend, fitted in with the squad and showed what talent we have coming up through the pathway."

Up Next

Devon Women host Buckinghamshire in the Metro Bank One Day Cup at Budleigh Salterton CC on Sunday, 27 April.