A blistering opening assault from overseas star Cate Pedersen and Irish international Ellie McGee powered Rush into the next round of the Leinster Women's Cup after a commanding 60-run victory over The Hills.

Cate Pedersen and Ellie McGee: Photo courtesy of Carherine Foley/Rush CC Facebook 

Rush piled up an imposing 199 for 5 from their 20 overs after McGee and Pedersen produced fireworks at the top of the order. The pair raced to 75 in just 40 balls, immediately putting The Hills under pressure with a flurry of boundaries.

McGee was first to dominate, crashing 54 from only 26 deliveries in a sparkling innings that included 10 fours and a six. After her departure, Pedersen continued the onslaught, striking 77 from 40 balls with 14 fours and a six in a superb display of aggressive batting. Useful late contributions from Aisling Beggs with 17 and Mabel O'Donohoe, unbeaten on 16, ensured Rush finished strongly. Caoimhe Scollard was the standout bowler for The Hills, claiming 3 for 26.

The Hills began their chase in explosive fashion and briefly threatened an upset. New Zealand teenager Eve Meachen hammered 50 from 30 balls, striking 11 fours, while Aimee Scollard made a run-a-ball 22 as the opening pair shared 72 in the first seven overs.

However, once the breakthrough came, the chase lost momentum. Rush tightened their grip through disciplined bowling and regular wickets, with McGee completing an outstanding all-round performance by taking three wickets. The Hills eventually closed on 139 for 8, falling well short of their target.

Rush’s reward is a daunting quarter-final trip to holders Merrion on May 21.