Match Preview: Southern Vipers v Northern Diamonds - Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy

Southern Vipers are back in 50-over action in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy on Saturday as they face Northern Diamonds in their final group stage fixture at The Ageas Bowl (10:30am Start).

The Vipers - and Northern Diamonds - have both already secured a place in at least the competition's Eliminator fixture but both sides will be looking to secure automatic qualification to the competition's Final.

Heading into Saturday's fixtures Northern Diamonds (23) are top of the group, Southern Vipers are second (23) and Central Sparks (22) are third, but both Diamonds and Sparks have a better net run rate than the Vipers.

Permutations

If Southern Vipers beat Northern Diamonds and pick up a bonus point they'll qualify for the Final.

If Southern Vipers beat Northern Diamonds (with or without a bonus point) and Central Sparks lose their final group stage fixture, the Vipers will qualify for the Final.

If Southern Vipers beat Northern Diamonds (no bonus point) and Central Sparks win their final group stage fixture but don't pick up a bonus point, the Vipers will qualify for the Final.

If Southern Vipers beat Northern Diamonds (no bonus point) and Central Sparks win their final group stage fixture and pick up a bonus point, the Vipers won't qualify for the Final and will play the Eliminator.

If Southern Vipers lose to Northern Diamonds they'll play the Eliminator.

The Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy Final will be played at Northamptonshire CCC on Saturday 25th September, while the Eliminator will be played at either Arundel Castle CC (if Vipers finish second in the group), Edgbaston Academy (if Central Sparks finish second in the group) or Scarborough CC (if Northern Diamonds finish second in the group) on Wednesday 22nd September.

Team News:

The Vipers have named a 13-player squad for Saturday's fixture against Northern Diamonds.

Maia Bouchier and new signing Gaby Lewis both feature but the Vipers are without Charlie Dean who's away with England.

Full Vipers Squad:

Tickets:

Tickets for Southern Vipers crucial clash with Northern Diamonds are available on the gate on Saturday (from (9:30am) - priced at just £10 for Adults and £3 for U17s.

Coverage:

Live match coverage and a live stream will be available at both www.ageasbowl.com/cricket and across Southern Vipers’ social media channels.

Weather Forecast:

Please find the latest weather forecast for The Ageas Bowl here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/6620360