Visitors to Emirates Old Trafford on Sunday showed their support for Lancashire Cricket’s #BatForWomensCricket campaign, as they cheered on North West women’s team Lancashire Thunder.

Captained by Ellie Threlkeld, Lancashire Thunder - in front of a crowd of more than 1,000 supporters - started their Charlotte Edwards Cup campaign with a comprehensive eight wicket win against rivals Northern Diamonds

But there was plenty of entertainment off the field, too, with many taking part in the fun batting challenge to meet the team and four lucky youngsters enjoyed that post-match.

Lancashire Cricket is keen to make the women’s game more visible to support greater funding and opportunities being made available within women’s cricket.

The club has invested heavily in the Lancashire Thunder team who already inspire many young girls to get involved in the sport.

Captain Threlkeld said: “It’s a great initiative to try and get more girls and women involved in cricket.

“The game’s growing, which is brilliant, and we want to do everything we can to keep that momentum going.

“#BatForWomensCricket is another opportunity to do that.

“We’ve made some significant progress in women’s cricket but there’s always more to be done.”

Lancashire Thunder and England opener, Emma Lamb added: “It’s been lovely today to play in front of a fantastic crowd and to sign all the autographs at the end - there were lots of little girls looking up at me which was really nice.

“It’s great that we can get in a decent crowd even when it isn’t a double header with the men’s game. I’m glad we won for all of them today.”

All visitors to the game were also entered into a prize draw which was announced at half time, with the lucky winners taking home prizes including a hospitality package to the upcoming Green Day concert and tickets to watch an England game.

To find out about future Lancashire Thunder fixtures visit: https://cricket.lancashirecricket.co.uk/