Victoria makes a winning start

In a re-match of last year’s Final, the Victorians turned the tables on their arch-nemesis as they successfully chased down their target after restricting NSW to just 112.

After the Blues won the toss and elected to bat, Victoria seized the early momentum as Bella Gietzmann pounced on a ball and ran out Ashley Day for 15.

While NSW consolidated courtesy of Clara Iemma (12) and Carly Leeson, who top-scored with 25 from 36 balls, Holly Whitford’s (2-26) dismissal of the former triggered a collapse of 8-44 as the Victorians ran riot.

Bowling in tandem, spin twins Madeleine Wright (2-26) and Georgia Wareham (2-17) crashed through the middle order before Sophie Van De Heuvel (3-15) cleaned up the tail.

“We got off to a real good start with the ball,” assistant coach Nat Schilov said.

“They may not have gotten the wickets but they bowled well.

“The spinners were very good as well and they could be a bit of a key for us…while Sophie Van De Heuvel bowled with good pace.”

Victoria’s run chase suffered an early set back as the visitors lost Van De Heuvel (0) and Zoe Griffiths (6) to slump to 2-8.

A 49-run partnership between Wareham and Melina Ayres wrestled the momentum away from the Blues.

Wareham’s departure for 22 provided the Blues with some hope, but Claire Wilson picked up where she left off before retiring hurt on 18 after injuring her back.

Throughout the innings, Ayres was the mainstay ash she crunched eight boundaries in her 45 before falling with just two runs needed for victory.

Annabel Martin finished unbeaten on 20 as Victoria claimed a brilliant first-up victory.

Victoria will meet South Australia in a 40-over match today as it continues its campaign.

To see a full scorecard, click here.