2023 CEC Preview: Western Storm v Central Sparks
THE MATCH
Western Storm take on Central Sparks in the Charlotte Edwards Cup at the Seat Unique Stadium, Bristol tomorrow.
This 20-over match will get underway at 10:30am.
This match is a double header with Gloucestershire taking on Middlesex in the Vitality Blast from 2:30pm.
Tickets for this match are still available.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Gates will open at 8:30am.
Everything you need to know about attending this match can be found at the Gloucestershire CCC visitor guide.
Entry to this match is free to full and one-day Gloucestershire Members.
HOW CAN I KEEP UP TO DATE?
You can keep up to date via the Western Storm website.
In addition to this, a report on the day’s play along with quotes will be posted on this website.
TEAM NEWS
A starting XI will be named from the following players: Sophie Luff (c), Danielle Gibson, Orla Prendergast, Heather Knight, Emma Corney, Fran Wilson, Claire Nicholas, Nat Wraith, Alex Griffiths, Nicole Harvey, Lauren Filer, Mollie Robbins, Chloe Skelton, Sophia Smale, Niamh Holland, Izzy Patel, Katie Jones, Isla Thomson, and Rebecca Odgers.
VIEW FROM THE DRESSING ROOM
Ahead of the match, Western Storm Head Coach, Trevor Griffin said: “I was delighted with how we went about things on Wednesday. Dani and Fran showed exactly how to execute a run chase. They always looked in control, transferred pressure and were outstanding. I was also impressed with our bowlers, particularly in the second half of their innings.
“Hopefully, that result bodes well for Sunday because we’re all looking forward to another double header, this time at the Seat Unique Stadium in Bristol. The weather is set fair, we always get good support there and hopefully it will be a day to remember for everyone.”
THE OPPOSITION
Central Sparks
Captain: Eve Jones
Overseas player: Erin Burns (Australia)
2022 finish: Losing finalist
2022 leading runscorer: Amy Jones (289)
2022 leading wicket taker: Grace Potts (12)
Key winter moves: The signing of vastly experienced Australian all-rounder Erin Burns will inject quality and nous into all department of the side.
Player to watch: Emily Arlott has followed Olly Stone’s route from Norfolk to the West Midlands and may well emulate his rise into the England set up. An aggressive seamer who keeps the batters under pressure, the 25-year-old will be key to the Sparks hopes of going far in the tournament.
HER GAME TOO
Throughout the day Gloucestershire will be celebrating the one-year anniversary of the Club’s partnership with the fan-led Her Game Too campaign. The voluntary organisation focuses on ensuring women and girls are welcomed and respected equally within sport. #HerGameToo was first launched in May 2021 and has since partnered with dozens of professional football clubs including Bristol Rovers, Leeds United and Everton.
On Sunday, players from all four teams will wear #HerGameToo branded t-shirts during the warm-ups and for the first time in Vitality Blast history a female umpire, Sue Redfern, will officiate on-field during the Gloucestershire vs Middlesex fixture.
FAMILY DAY
Gloucestershire’s annual Family Day makes a return on Sunday and will see children of all ages get the chance to receive coaching on the field of play at the Seat Unique Stadium. An on-field autograph signing session with players from Western Storm and Gloucestershire will also take place at the end of Gloucestershire vs Middlesex.
NEXT MATCH
Western Storm’s next match is on Wednesday when we take on The Blaze in the Charlotte Edwards Cup at Sophia Gardens.
This match is a double header which also features Glamorgan v Surrey in the Vitality Blast.
