The Blaze claimed their maiden Vitality Blast title in emphatic fashion, securing a 10-wicket victory over Durham at the Kia Oval. Chasing a target of 118, openers Tammy Beaumont and Sarah Bryce delivered a commanding performance, finishing unbeaten on 54 from 39 balls and 53 from 41 balls respectively. Their partnership, the highest opening stand of the tournament, allowed the side to seal the win with 40 balls remaining.
After winning the toss, The Blaze captain Kirstie Gordon elected to field, a decision that paid immediate dividends. Grace Ballinger struck in the opening over, removing Durham captain Hollie Armitage for a duck. Gordon, who previously led the side to success in the 2024 Charlotte Edwards Cup, proved instrumental with the ball, finishing with figures of 3 for 21. While Heather Graham provided some resistance for Durham with a top score of 30 from 23 deliveries, the batting side struggled to build momentum.
The Blaze maintained tight control throughout the innings. Mady Villiers survived two chances early on, but Gordon eventually claimed her wicket. Kathryn Bryce also contributed by dismissing Graham, who had been a key threat. Although Grace Thompson and Emily Windsor attempted a late rally with a 40-run partnership from 30 balls, spinner Charli Knott took two wickets in the final over to restrict Durham to 117 for 8.
In the chase, Beaumont and Sarah Bryce dominated from the outset. Beaumont reached her half-century first, sweeping a delivery from Katie Levick for two runs off 34 balls. Bryce followed shortly after, hitting successive boundaries off Lauren Filer to reach her milestone. Beaumont ultimately struck the winning run off Villiers, cementing a historic victory for The Blaze.
