Manchester Super Giants returned to winning ways in the women’s tournament with an impressive six-wicket victory over MI London at The Kia Oval. Meanwhile, the men’s side suffered a 45-run defeat despite a spirited half-century from captain Aiden Markram.

The women’s team laid the foundation for victory with a disciplined effort on the field. Sophie Ecclestone once again produced a brilliant spell with the ball to keep MI London under constant pressure from the very first ball with two wickets in her first two sets.

Ryana MacDonald-Gay was equally impressive, taking three wickets at crucial moments to halt the hosts’ momentum and finishing with an excellent return as the Super Giants restricted MI London to a chaseable total.

In the chase, Manchester’s experienced opening pair took charge. Smriti Mandhana played with her trademark elegance, finding the boundary regularly. Skipper Meg Lanning anchored the chase with typical composure. Their 73-run partnership put the Super Giants firmly in command before the middle order calmly completed the job, sealing a convincing six-wicket victory with plenty of deliveries to spare.

The men’s team, meanwhile, found themselves up against a strong MI London performance. Chasing 184, captain Aiden Markram stood tall with a fighting half-century, keeping the Super Giants’ hopes alive with a determined knock. However, with wickets falling regularly, they were unable to build the partnerships required as MI London claimed a 45-run victory.

Attention now turns back to Emirates Old Trafford, where both Manchester Super Giants teams will host Welsh Fire on Wednesday. The women’s side will be eager to build on their momentum, while the men’s team will be determined to bounce back in front of the home supporters and return to winning ways.