WORCESTERSHIRE Rapids Women exited the newly-formed ECB Knockout Cup in the first round following a five-wicket defeat against Northamptonshire Steelbacks.
The Rapids won the toss and elected to bat but struggled to build any momentum, finishing on 96-8 at the end of their 20 overs at Wantage Road.
Only captain Chloe Hill (18) and Clare Boycott (16 not out) made any headway as Lenny Sims (2-12), Ella Phillips (2-15) and Bethan Robinson (2-16) restricted Worcestershire’s progress.
The Rapids took wickets at regular intervals to keep the tie alive only for quickfire contributions from Gemma Marriott (24), Amelia Kemp (23), and Sims (10 not out) to guide the Steelbacks to victory.
Worcestershire captain Hill said: “Obviously [we’re] very gutted with that performance.
“To be out in the first round, especially when 20-over cricket has been such a strong format for us in previous seasons, it’s really disappointing.
“Ultimately, not enough runs on the board. Poor executions and wrong decisions, I guess, from us collectively.
“I think it’s just all about being a bit more disciplined and a bit more mature.
“The pitch didn’t play how we expected, it had uneven bounce, and when you’re three down in the powerplay, it puts you under pressure straight away.
“Our bowlers did bowl really well. Jess Beach was exceptional, just bowling full and straight, with great control, and Phoebe Brett also bowled nicely.
“But we’ve got to be more disciplined in the field and with the ball for longer periods.”
