Beaumont and Bryce lead The Blaze to Vitality Blast victory

Tammy Beaumont and Sarah Bryce both scored unbeaten half-centuries as The Blaze triumphed over Durham by 10 wickets in the final of the Vitality Blast Women at the Kia Oval on July 17, 2026. The Blaze chased down a target of 118 runs without losing a wicket, finishing their innings at 118 for 0 with Beaumont contributing 54 runs off 39 balls and Bryce adding 53 runs from 41 deliveries.

Durham managed to score only 117 runs for the loss of 8 wickets, with Heather Graham being the top scorer for her team, hitting 30 runs from 23 balls. Kirstie Gordon, captain of The Blaze, excelled with the ball, taking 3 wickets for 21 runs in her four overs, leading a disciplined bowling attack that restricted Durham to a sub-par total.

After winning the toss, Gordon chose to field first, a decision that proved right as Grace Ballinger took a wicket in her first over and conceded just one run. Durham struggled early on, losing their captain Hollie Armitage without scoring. Graham's efforts weren't enough to spark a recovery for Durham, as their batting lineup faltered, and they fell to 73 for 5 at one point.

The Blaze's bowlers maintained the pressure, with Charli Knott taking 2 for 25, ensuring that Durham did not make a strong comeback. The necessary run rate remained manageable for The Blaze, who maintained a steady chase through the partnership of Beaumont and Bryce.

The opening pair batted with confidence throughout, showcasing their skills and putting the pressure on Durham's bowlers. Beaumont reached her fifty from 34 balls, followed closely by Bryce, who took 39 deliveries to achieve her half-century. Beaumont sealed the victory by guiding a ball to the boundary, igniting celebrations among The Blaze players and supporters.

This victory marked The Blaze's first title in the Vitality Blast, highlighting a successful campaign where their top-order batting and effective bowling proved critical.