by Andy Wilson

Charlotte Edwards reflected on an eventful and emotional summer after becoming the first captain to lift the Kia Super League trophy.

After losing the England captaincy ahead of the home series against Pakistan, Edwards also suffered the shock of being concussed in her debut for the Southern Vipers – but returned in time to lead them to victory in the Final against Western Storm.

“It’s been a really special few months actually,” she said. “Getting a group together, blank canvas, and then preparing for this. You hope you get to Finals Day and put in a performance like that.

"It’s been brilliant to be part of this group for the last three or four months, and watch them grow and develop as people and players. We’ll all enjoy celebrating what was a brilliant win.

“You couldn’t have made up my summer so far really, with getting knocked on the head and missing the Lancashire game. But everyone’s shown a lot of faith in me and I’ve kept backing myself and I actually really enjoyed today. This is what I miss playing in, these sort of occasions, and to be at the other end to Suzie Bates makes batting easy doesn’t it?”

Bates, the New Zealand captain who was named the leading female cricketer in the world by Wisden earlier this year, revealed that the Vipers players were determined to win the inaugural KSL title for Edwards and Lydia Greenway, who also ended a long international career in the spring – and had the satisfaction of hitting the winning runs.

“With Lydia Greenway and Lottie having retired from international cricket, they’ve really put into this Vipers team,” said Bates.

“It’s been a tough summer for them both I think so it’s just really pleasing to give them some good news and have a good team performance out there.”

Edwards reciprocated, thanking Bates and the rest of her team for their support. “It’s been an emotional tournament really,” she confirmed.

“I’ve had to deal with quite a lot this summer. The girls have backed me 110%, you feel there was a little bit they wanted to win it for us and what we’ve been through.

"And certainly the overseas players have been absolutely brilliant. I’ve really sensed the team behind me, and it’s been brilliant to be a part of. I’ve loved having a slightly different role, I’m more of a mentor in this team I think, I’ve been and around the Ageas, and it’s been really enjoyable.”

Edwards also gave a big thumbs-up to the first KSL tournament. “It’s exceeded my expectations as a first year,” she added. “Having spoken to a few of the overseas players they’ve been really impressed by our county cricketers. It’s up there with the Big Bash absolutely. Having six teams has made it absolutely competitive, and to be playing with some of the best players in the world and some of the best England players, it’s great for me but for the youngsters in the team, this is what this competition will help build.”