Hearts douse Sparks, set up title clash with Blaze

Auckland Hearts will take on Wellington Blaze in the final of the Super Smash 2019-20, after the former defeated Otago Sparks in the Elimination Final at the Eden Park Outer Oval on Thursday (January 16).

Anna Peterson and Lauren Down started the 121-run chase in sound fashion, getting off the blocks pretty quickly. The duo brought their 50-run stand up inside the power play, with Peterson being the aggressor. That Sparks’ bowling was wayward and had extras galore didn’t help matters.

Amanda-Jade Wellington managed to breakthrough when Hearts were coasting at 94 for no loss in the 11^th over, getting Down caught by Suzie Bates for 37. Two quick wickets then with both Katie Perkins and Regina Lili’I getting out for ducks, leaving Hearts at 99 for three.

But Peterson continued from the other end, making a steady half century and ensuring that her side plays the title clash on Sunday (January 19). She hit five fours and a six in her unconquered 50-ball 57. For Sparks, Hannah Darlington picked up a brace.

Earlier, electing to bat, Sparks didn’t get off to the best of starts. They lost Suzie Bates (5) and Millie Cowan (15) inside the power play. Katey Martin soon fell to Bella Armstrong to leave Sparks reeling at 35 for three.

Hayley Jensen kept the innings afloat with an unbeaten 41. She added 40 with Darlington (21), which was the highest in the innings. Holly Huddleston finished with two for 23 for Hearts.

Brief Scores: Otago Sparks 120/7 in 20 overs (Hayley Jensen 41*, Hannah Darlington 21; Holly Huddleston 2/23) lost to Auckland Hearts 121/5 in 16.3 overs (Anna Peterson 57*, Lauren Down 37; Hannah Darlington 2/19) by five wickets.