Emma Jones’ 44 was not enough for The Blaze as they suffered defeat to Lancashire by eight wickets in a friendly at Monton CC in Manchester.

Opting to bat first, The Blaze posted 135 all out in 34.4 overs, with Jones’ 44 from 62 and Ella Claridge’s 31 the top scores.

However, in spite of a wicket apiece for Josie Groves and Maria Andrews, the Red Rose reached their target in the 24th over of their chase as Tilly Kesteven hit 40.

Jones and Sarah Bryce, who made 26, put on 60 for the second wicket to give the visitors some early impetus, only for Olivia Bell and Venus Weerappulli to dent that with three wickets each.

After Jones and Claridge had fallen in successive overs, The Blaze were 105-4, and Bell and Weerappulli took hold to ensure the lower order was unable to mount a fightback.

Groves and Andrews ensured Lancashire wouldn’t have things all their own way by removing Alice Clarke and Kesteven, respectively, in back to back overs.

However, an unbeaten 37 for Fi Morris, which included the winning run, ultimately saw the hosts comfortably reach their target.

View the full scorecard and highlight clips here.