RHF Trophy 2021, Southern Vipers vs Northern Diamonds: Preview, fantasy tips, probable XIs

Southern Vipers and Northern Diamonds will play in the final of the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy 2021, at Northampton, on 25 September. The Vipers emerged victorious in the last two meetings.

They last met a week ago, when the Vipers chased down 257 runs with five wickets in hand to seal a spot in the final. An unbeaten 84 from Georgia Elwiss, coupled with a crucial half-century from Georgia Adams, drove them across the target.

Adams is in terrific form, and she has notched fifty in each of her last two matches. She will open the innings, alongside Ela McCaughan. Maia Bouchier will be available for the contest. Lauren Bell, Tara Norris and Elwiss will spearhead the fast bowling attack for the Vipers.

The Diamonds rode on a disciplined bowling performance to restrict Central Sparks to 175/7 in 50 overs. Ami Campbell then steered the side to the final with her 78-ball 76. Sterre Kallis remained unbeaten on 41.

The opening pair of Rachel Hopkins and Hollie Armitage hasn't been able to provide them with a decent start in the last couple of matches. Kallis has been a reliable presence in the middle order. 

Betway Fantasy Tips

• Among wicketkeepers, pick Bess Heath over Carla Rudd. Against the Thunders, Heath smashed 78 off 65 deliveries.
• Kallis, Adams and Elwiss are must-haves for your team.
• Appoint Elwiss captain of your fantasy side. She scored 84 and even picked up a wicket in the last game.

Probable XIs

Southern Vipers: Georgia Adams (c), Carla Rudd (wk), Gaby Lewis, Maia Bouchier, Georgia Elwiss, Paige Scholfield, Emily Windsor, Tara Norris, Charlotte Taylor, Ella McCaughan, Lauren Bell

Northern Diamonds: Hollie Armitage (c), Bess Heath (wk), Sterre Kallis, Rachel Hopkins, Beth Langton, Linsey Smith, Katie Levick, Phoebe Graham, Ella Telford, Ami Campbell, Leah Dobson

Blitzpools Fantasy Team

Bess Heath, Georgia Adams (C), Maia Bouchier, Gaby Lewis, Sterre Kalis (VC), Ami Campbell, Georgia Elwiss, Hollie Armitage, Beth Langston, Charlotte Taylor, Lauren Bell, Tara Norris.