Western Storm defeated by Hollie Armitage's Northern Diamonds

New England star Hollie Armitage led the Northern Diamonds to a come-from-behind victory against Western Storm.

A 103 run from the international newcomer propelled them to a 10-run triumph in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy.

Entering the game, the Diamonds were on a downslide, struggling at 89 for five before captain Armitage steered a rally to an eventual 275 for nine during her 114-ball innings.

All-rounder Abi Glen also aided in the comeback, with her debut regional 53 off 46, later securing three wickets with her seamers.

Armitage's success over her England team-mate, Dani Gibson, who achieved three for 44 for Storm, ensured the Diamonds' second consecutive victory following Saturday's match against Thunder.

In response, the Storm were vying well, occupying a strong position at 127 for two in the 23rd over, only to fall short at 265 all out in the final over when they required 12 to win.

While Armitage will undoubtedly seize the spotlight, Phoebe Turner also left an impression with her three wickets following her 32 with the bat.

Diamonds Captain, Hollie Armitage, reflected on her team's performance.

She said: "As a batting unit we have a lot to reflect on.

"But, at the end of day, we’ve put a competitive total on the board and have got a win.

"That’s all that matters".

She also went on to appreciate the efforts of her team, saying: "When batters came in, Phoebe Turner and Abi Glen in particular, the way they went about their business made my job a lot easier.

"As an experienced player, these are circumstances where I’ve got to stand up.

"Luckily today, I stood up and helped the team to a win".

She concluded: "All in all, the girls executed really well.

"We’ve won from a really tough position, and that stands us in good stead leading into the rest of the competition".

Storm captain Sophie Luff acknowledged the improvement in their performance, although disappointed not to secure a win.

She said: "It was a much improved performance from Saturday.

"We asked the girls for a response, and I think we had that, albeit missing the result that we wanted".

Luff also admired the contributions of Amanda-Jade Wellington and Dani Gibson to the match, claiming "both were exceptional".