Clinical Bowling Performance Seals Brave's Triumph

Southern Brave launched their 2024 Hundred campaign in style as Lauren Bell (3-28) dismantled Manchester Originals' batting lineup at Old Trafford. The England international's searing pace accounted for key wickets including:

• Kathryn Bryce (bowled middle stump)
• Melie Kerr (caught at short fine leg)
• Fi Morris (return catch)

Manchester's Batting Collapse The Originals crumbled to 95-8 from 100 balls despite:

• 17-year-old Tilly Corteen-Coleman's impressive 1-12
• Seren Smale's fighting 40* (34 balls) - the innings' lone resistance

Wolvaardt Anchors Chase South African skipper Laura Wolvaardt showcased her class with:

• 42* off 37 deliveries
• 5 boundaries
• 78% control rate

Post-Match Reactions Bell told BBC Sport: "The ball came out beautifully today. After last season's struggles, we're determined to reclaim our trophy."

Tactical Breakdown

• Brave's triple spin attack (Villiers 2-19, Kemp 1-15) choked run flow
• Originals' middle-order failed against short-pitched bowling
• Wolvaardt's calculated aggression in 48-run partnership with Wyatt-Hodge (32) sealed the chase

Historical Context

• Bell now needs 2 wickets to become The Hundred's all-time leading wicket-taker
• Brave register first opening match win since 2022 championship season