The Coffs Coast Chargers have defeated the ACT Aces by 42 runs to claim victory in the inaugural NSW Women's Regional Bash Final at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Tuesday night.
Player of the Match Naomi McDonald was the star for Coffs Coast with an unbeaten 90 from 72 balls before an economical performance from the Chargers bowling outfit sealed victory.
Ahead of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2020 which begins in exactly one month, the Women's Regional Bash Finals Day saw four teams of regional female cricketers show their skills on one of the most iconic grounds in world sport, the SCG.
Winning the toss and electing to bat in the Final, the Chargers' opening pair of Naomi McDonald and Kate Rowlands got the Coffs Coast innings off to a perfect start with a century partnership for the first wicket.
Rowlands would eventually be dismissed for 35 with the score at that stage 1-114.
McDonald pressed home her side's positive start and would end the innings just 10 runs short of a century in Coffs Coast's impressive total of 2-152.
Requiring 153 to win, the Aces' were unable to keep up with the required run rate.
Assured knocks from Kelly Rowlings (42) and Caitlin Galeano (37) helped the Aces reach 5-110 from 20 overs, however it was not enough for the Canberra side with the Chargers claiming the inaugural NSW Women's Regional Bash trophy.
Acting Minister for Sport Geoff Lee said the NSW Government’s support of the NSW Women’s Regional Bash was part of its commitment to drive powerful change for women’s sport and grow female participation.
“Women’s cricket has experienced enormous success both on and off the pitch and the sport continues to grow,” Mr Lee said.
“The NSW Government is proud to support the NSW Women’s Regional Bash which enhances the playing pathways for female cricketers while actively encouraging more women to take up the sport.
“The standard of cricket in the inaugural tournament was outstanding and I congratulate the winners on their fantastic achievement.”
Earlier, the Chargers qualified for the NSW Women's Regional Bash Final thanks to a comprehensive victory over the Newcastle Blasters, while the Aces earned their spot courtesy of a strong win over the Illawarra Flames.
The NSW Women’s Regional Bash provides a wonderful opportunity for female cricketers in country areas to showcase their skills. The inaugural tournament is proudly supported by the NSW Government and the ICC T20 World Cup 2020 as one of a range of measures to ensure the T20 World Cup has a lasting positive impact supporting the growth of cricket in NSW.