The VicSpirit have leapfrogged the SA Scorpions on the Women's National Cricket League ladder after winning a rain-reduced clash between the two sides on Saturday.

After rain forced the match to be reduced to 36 overs a side, the VicSpirit got the job done, winning by 47 runs at Parkinson Oval.

The win sees the VicSpirit take over second spot from the Scorpions on the WNCL ladder and in the box seat to take the other spot in the final against the NSW Breakers.

After winning the toss and electing to bat first, the VicSpirit made a strong start with openers Meg Lanning (35) and Danielle Wyatt (33) putting on 59 runs before the latter was dismissed.

Jess Cameron (11) and Sarah Elliott (21) both got starts before falling but it was some lusty late hitting from Emma Inglis (42no off 40) and Clea Smith (32 off 21) that enabled the visitors to post 6-187.

Shelley Nitschke was the pick of the Scorpions bowlers with 2-27 from her eight overs.

In reply the home side made a decent fist of their chase but a poor spell midway through the innings - where they lost 4-14 - scuppered any chance of victory.

Lauren Ebsary did her best for the South Australians, finishing unbeaten on 51 from 54 balls with two fours and one massive six.

Smith (2-22), Kath Hempenstall (1-15), Wyatt (1-25) and Kristen Beams (1-34) were the wicket-takers for the VicSpirit.

The two sides will meet again on Sunday in a T20 match at the same venue.

17 DECEMBER, 2011 Sportal