Dottin's Blistering 51 Helps Manchester Originals Edge Superchargers in Thriller

Deandra Dottin delivered a sensational 26-ball 51* to lift Manchester Originals to a narrow five-run win over Northern Superchargers in a gripping clash at Old Trafford in the Women's Hundred. The victory sees both teams now locked on equal points in joint second place, with the tournament wide open.

In front of a record-breaking crowd of 11,952 for a women’s game at Emirates Old Trafford, the Originals successfully defended a modest total of 117 for 5, thanks to an inspired performance with the ball and some exceptional fielding.

Coming in with just 42 balls left in the innings, Dottin turned the tide with a powerful, composed innings that featured three towering sixes. Her attacking intent, particularly against short-pitched deliveries, gave Manchester much-needed momentum after both openers — captain Beth Mooney and Kathryn Bryce — fell cheaply.

Dottin was later named the Meerkat Match Hero, registering only the second half-century for the Originals this season. “After the feedback from the players out there, I tried to assess what the pitch was doing and take it deep. It was exciting, and we’re pleased to get over the line. It’s a big win, but we’re keeping our feet on the ground,” she said.

Defending 117, Manchester's bowling unit stepped up under pressure. Left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone (2 for 21) and wrist-spinner Amelia Kerr (2 for 20) played pivotal roles in stalling the Superchargers' chase. Mahika Gaur set the tone with a miserly opening spell, conceding just 10 runs from her 15 balls.

The turning point of the Superchargers' innings came on the 61st ball, when the in-form Phoebe Litchfield, who had just hit a stunning switch-hit six, was caught brilliantly by Fi Morris on the boundary off Bryce’s bowling. Morris later held another sharp chance to remove Annabel Sutherland.

With seven balls remaining, Deandra Dottin capped her all-round performance with a full-stretch diving catch at cover to dismiss Bess Heath, giving Ecclestone her second wicket. Lauren Filer then held her nerve in the final set of five, sealing the win amid raucous home celebrations.

Captain Beth Mooney praised her side’s bowling depth after the match. “It’s a huge result,” she said. “Sometimes it’s not pretty, but scrappy wins are what get you through tight tournaments. I’m lucky to have six international bowlers, including Sophie and Amelia, who make my job much easier.”

The win keeps Manchester Originals firmly in contention as the competition heads into its final stages.