Captain’s innings inspires Hampstead Ladies to sixth victory in eight games

A captain’s innings from Lucy Horitz and a superb bowling display took Hampstead’s ladies to their sixth victory from eight games in Division A of the North London Women’s League.

Horitz top-scored in the match with an unbeaten 40 as Hampstead posted 116-8 from their 30 overs at Hemel Hempstead – and a strong bowling display restricted the hosts to 72-7 in reply.

Hampstead were asked to bat on a green wicket and Horitz shared a a 38-run opening partnership with Jenny Heppell (17).

A few mix-ups, combined with some excellent catches, resulted in some early returns to the clubhouse.

However, Angela Bonora (10), Harriet Millard (11) and No8 Jess Black added useful contributions alongside their skipper as the visitors passed 100 in their 30 overs.

Hampstead were even better in the field, where they put in one of their best displays of the season.

Opening bowlers Heppell (2-2 ) and Jess Black (1-11) stopped Hemel from leaving their starting blocks, and in the third over the hosts were struggling at 5-1.

The pressure intensified as Hampstead unveiled the rest of their bowling arsenal, with Bonora (1-4), Emma Edwards (1-20) and Ruth Charles (2-21) all claiming scalps.

With 10 overs to go, Hemel needed 74 runs to win – and they fell well short.

“I’m so pleased with today’s result,” said Horitz. “We never allowed Hemel to get a foothold in their innings. The whole team were inspirational.”