The Blaze loan signing Michaela Kirk produced a stunning unbeaten 125 as David Ripley’s Steelbacks Women opened their season with a dominant 185-run victory over Leicestershire.
Captain Anisha Patel won the toss and chose to bat, sending openers Kemp and Drinkell out to start the season.
The pair put on 32 in the opening 12 overs before Drinkell fell for 10, which was quickly followed by a couple more wickets that left the Steelbacks 56/3.
Kirk then joined Ascott at the crease, and the duo steadied the innings with a composed and crucial partnership. They passed the 100-run partnership in the 35th over, laying the platform for a strong finish.
Kirk brought up a historic century soon after and guided the innings to its conclusion, finishing unbeaten on 125. The Steelbacks finished on 264/6.
Leicestershire’s chase began with Bethan Robinson striking on the first ball and dismissing Brooker. The visitors were quickly reduced to 9/5, as the Steelbacks’ bowlers ripped through the top order. Ella Phillips led the charge with four wickets, while Presland sealed the win by taking the final wicket in the 32nd over.
It was a commanding performance to kick off the campaign, with Kirk’s knock the standout in a complete team display.