London Spirit pulled off a dramatic last-ball victory against Trent Rockets in a thrilling Women's Hundred encounter at Trent Bridge. The visitors successfully chased down a target of 143 runs, winning with just three balls remaining in a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final delivery.

De Klerk Denies Rockets in Last-Ball Thriller

Nadine de Klerk emerged as the hero of the match, scoring an unbeaten 41 runs off 31 balls, including the match-winning six off the final ball of the innings. With 11 runs needed off the final seven balls, de Klerk displayed nerves of steel tosmash Ashleigh Gardner for a six off a full toss and secure the victory.

"It was a great finish. We knew what we needed to do and I'm glad I could deliver for the team," said de Klerk after the match.

Spirit Collapse Threatens Victory

The chase began positively for Spirit, with Grace Harris (37) and Amy Jones (21) forming a solid 55-run opening partnership. However, the dismissal of both openers in quick succession triggered a dramatic collapse, with Spirit losing four wickets for just 12 runs, leaving them in a precarious position at 67/4.

Marizanne Kapp and Sterre Kalis also departed in quick succession, leaving Spirit in trouble. However, Marie Kelly and de Klerk then combined for a decisive 63-run partnership, reviving the chase and guiding the team to victory.

Kapp Stars with Ball

Earlier, Trent Rockets had posted a competitive total of 142/7 in their 100 balls. Opting to bowl, Kapp gave the visitors an early breakthrough by dismissing Beth Mooney for a golden duck. Sophia Dunkley and Sophie Luff steadied Trent Rockets with a brisk 33-run stand, but Kapp returned to remove both batters and finished with figures of 3-12.

Captain Ashleigh Gardner provided the impetus through the middle with a 22-ball 34, which included five fours, before Bess Heath added late runs with an unbeaten 31 off 19. The Rockets were 95/4 when Gardner fell on the 63rd ball and failed to find the finish they were after, with Georgia Elwiss (13 off 16) even being retired out in a bid to raise the scoring rate.

Match Abandoned in Manchester

In the second match of the day, Manchester Super Giants and Birmingham Phoenix's encounter was abandoned without a toss due to persistent rain at Old Trafford. The teams split points as neither side could take the field.

Brief Scores:

Trent Rockets: 142/7 in 100 balls (Ashleigh Gardner 34, Bess Heath 31*; Marizanne Kapp 3-12) lost to London Spirit 146/5 in 97 balls (Nadine de Klerk 41*, Marie Kelly 39; Ashleigh Gardner 2-24) by five wickets.