Match Preview: Loughborough Lightning v Southern Vipers - Kia Super League

The Southern Vipers take to the The Ageas Bowl for the final time in this year’s Kia Super League as they face Lancashire Thunder on Saturday evening.

Southern Vipers Squad:

The Vipers fell to a narrow final-over defeat against Surrey Stars on Tuesday to bring an end to hopes of securing Finals Day qualification, but Suzie Bates’ side will be looking to finish the campaign in good style and thwart the Thunder’s Finals ambitions when they take to the field this weekend.

Bates produced a superb all-round performance on Tuesday, striking 82 from 57 balls at the top of the order, before claiming 2-22 from her four overs with the ball, and she’ll be hoping to continue that good form in Saturday’s final group game.

17-year-old seamer Lauren Bell also impressed during the Stars’ innings on Tuesday, going at just four runs per over from her allocation in the powerplay, and she will take the new ball again in the curtain-closer.

The Opposition:

Lancashire Thunder have had a mixed 2018 Kia Super League campaign, claiming victory in four their nine matches so far to currently sit fourth in the table.

Dani Hazell’s side still remain in contention for a Finals Day place however, but only a victory against the Southern Vipers on Saturday will give them a chance of claiming that coveted third place.

Amy Satterthwaite has been key component to the visitors’ squad this season, totalling 250 runs at an average of 35.71 in her nine innings so far, whilst Emma Lamb and Sophie Eccleston have starred with the ball, picking up 12 wickets apiece at averages of less than 20.

Did you know?

• Southern Vipers have won two of the three matches played between the two sides.
• Danni Wyatt has struck 85 runs in the last two innings against Lancashire Thunder, the side she represented in the inaugural Kia Super League competition.

Full Southern Vipers Squad:

Coverage:

The Southern Vipers’ social media channels will provide updates throughout Saturday’s match.

Weather Forecast:

Please follow the link for the latest weather forecast for the The Ageas Bowl: http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/public/weather/forecast/gcp185f25

Tickets:

Tickets for Saturday’s match against Lancashire Thunder at The Ageas Bowl can be purchased online via the link below, over the phone 0844 847 1863, or by visiting the The Ageas Bowl’s Ticketing & Membership Office during normal working hours.