Bucks Women fell agonisingly short in a thrilling Vitality Blast Division 3 League 1 Final against Wiltshire at the picturesque Wormsley Cricket Ground, losing by just six runs in a match that ebbed and flowed throughout. After winning the toss, Wiltshire chose to bat first and posted 114 for 7 from their 20 overs. Bucks responded with a spirited chase but ultimately closed on 108 for 8, just shy of the target.

The Bucks bowlers delivered a disciplined performance, led superbly by captain Cara Duggan. Her spell was the standout of the innings—four overs of tight, composed bowling, finishing with 2-12 and the wickets coming in consecutive balls.

In pursuit of 115, Bucks began confidently, anchored by opener Chloe Hill. She struck a fluent 33 and looked in command until her dismissal by Katherine Mills shifted the tide. That wicket marked a pivotal turning point, halting the Bucks innings just as it was gaining momentum.

As wickets fell around her, Cara Duggan again stood tall, adding an unbeaten 24 runs. Her innings kept hopes alive until the very end, but the total was sadly just out of reach.

Though the defeat will sting, Bucks Women can take great pride in their performance. Duggan’s all-round display with both bat and ball exemplified strong leadership, while the team as a whole showed fight, discipline, and spirit under pressure. The narrow loss highlights their potential and suggests a promising future for the squad as they look to build on this campaign.