2024 ANNUAL REPORT

THE BLAZE REPORT 29 It also felt like a season in which the foundations for the future were laid; particularly with the news that Trent Bridge would continue to be our home as we became a Tier One team amid the domestic restructure. We have been made to feel welcome from our first day at Trent Bridge, but collaboration across the entirety of the East Midlands has been invaluable in getting The Blaze to where we are now, and will remain so in this new era. The headline news from the season just gone was finishing the final regional campaign as Charlotte Ed- wards Cup champions - concluding a two-year spell during which we lost just twice in 20T20 games. The reward of silverware was vindication for all the hard work put in by players and staff over an extended period of time, and the celebrations were sweeter having overcome the heartache of losing two finals in 2023. Kathryn Bryce was our standout player of the tournament, finishing as the competition’s top run-scorer. Being named the PCA Most Valu- able Player, the Charlotte Edwards Cup Player of the Season and the PCAWomen’s Player of theYear is an exceptional feat, and we’re delighted she has received the recognition of which she is worthy. However, whilst her form was unparalleled, we would not have lifted the trophy had it not been for contributions from across the team which were testament to our strength in depth. Memorable performances included an unbeaten 89 from Marie Kelly to fire us to the top of the table at the end of the group stages, whilst Sarah Bryce’s runs proved vital, and helped her end the campaign amongst the top run scorers. Indeed, one of my favourite moments of the season was her leg- side swipe for six against Sunrisers at Lord’s, which landed in the top tier of the Grand Stand. Kirstie Gordon was the tournament’s 2024 has been a remarkable season for The Blaze – one of trophy-winning success for our first team, standout individual performances and notable levels of progression from our pathway into the professional environment. J AM E S C U T T THE BLAZE REPORT