Mandhana, Wellington star as Southern Brave beat Manchester Originals by 9 runs

Amanda Wellington celebrates with her teammates [Image Credits: Getty]

The Southern Brave Women, on Thursday, consolidated their position at the top of the table as they notched up their 3rd successive win courtesy of a 9-run heist at the expense of Manchester Originals.

Batting first, the Anya Shrubsole-led unit once again rode on a brilliant start from the opening duo of Smriti Mandhana (43 off 25) and Dani Wyatt (31 off 24).

The duo hammered 64 runs off just 43 deliveries, with Smriti spearheading the partnership with a sparkling knock that was studded with 6 fours and 2 sixes.

However, medium pacer Kate Cross (1/25 in 20 deliveries) and left-arm orthodox Sophie Ecclestone (2/32 in 20 deliveries) brought Manchester back in the game as they removed the top-3, which included Sophia Dunkley.

Tahlia McGrath managed a 6-ball 3 before she got trapped leg-before-wicket by Hannah Jones. But, Middlesex cricketer Maia Bouchier's unbeaten 17-ball 23 and a quickfire 11 (7) from Freya Kemp ensured the Brave' women finished at 136/5.