Played as a ‘dead rubber,’ both teams had insufficient points to qualify for the tournament’s next stage. England’s Charlie Dean skippered ’Spirit’ to victory by a wide margin. Grace Harris (from Australia’s Women’s Big Bash League) hit top-score of 87 runs (from 47 balls) to bag herself a commemorative POTM Meerkat Match Hero cap-and-medal. ’Spirit’s’ consolation win ensured they ‘finished on a high’ in sixth place with 6 points (from 2 wins and 4 losses); nudging ‘Originals’ to finish the group stage seventh in the standings table. For ‘Phoenix’ as ‘spoonists’ three wafer-thin defeats by exactly the same margin of three runs was ‘miserable:’ [‘home’ to ‘Fire’ (Aug 10); ‘away’ to ‘Brave’ (Aug 16); & ’Rockets’ (19.)] Had ‘Phoenix’ won these three matches, the top three teams already qualified for the finals could have been slightly different. Introduced for SKY Sports by Charles Dagnall with Alex Tudor & Kevin Pietersen (former England players); and guests Lauren Winfield-Hill & Heather Knight; plus NZ TV personality (& ex NZ player) Simon Doull. Match highlights courtesy of SKY Sports and ‘The Hundred,’ (please see below.) Weather at Edgbaston was cloudy with occasional sunny spells, with no need for floodlights.

LS-W *Stand-in skipper Charlie Dean. *[Amy Jones keeping wicket for ‘Phoenix’] *International players Richa Ghosh (India), Grace Harris (Australia WBBL) Amelia Kerr (NZ); plus Tara Norris (US.) *England’s Heather Knight, Charlie Dean, Sarah Glenn, Danielle ‘Dani’ Gibson & Lauren Filer *Including U19’s Sophie Munro. Debutante Sophie Luff (replacing Heather Knight, who was on commentary.) *With little deviation from ‘swing,’ opener Grace Harris scored easily from Issy Wong’s extended ‘set-of-five’ with ’six’ & 2 ‘fours.’ *After hitting 2 ‘fours,’ Dani Gibson 18(10) was bowled beneath-her-bat by a ‘yorker,’ knocking back ’leg-stump,’ from Charis Paveley (1/29) *After 25 balls power-play, ’Spirit’ were 50/1 & reached 87/1 by ‘mid-way.’ *2 balls later, Amelia Kerr 17(17) was caught low-down at ‘mid-on,’ by Sophie Devine, from Katie Levick (1/29.) *Sophie Luff 3(5) top-edged to the boundary, caught deep of ‘backward-square’ by Issy Wong, from Erin Burns (1/26.) *With 16 balls remaining, Grace Harris and Richa Ghosh struck 3 ’sixes’ between them, until  Richa Ghosh was ‘run-out’ by Sophie Devine re-directing Tess Flintoff’s throw to the striker’s end where Amy Jones broke-the-wicket. *Grace Scrivens 6*not out (5) partnered Grace Harris, boosted ‘Spirit’s’ total by 20 runs from 11 balls until Grace Harris 87(47) was ‘run out’ by Tess Flintoff, from Emily Arlott’s last ball. *Best ‘Spirit’ batters was Grace Harris 87(47); *Best ‘Phoenix’ bowler Erin Burns 1/26

BP-W *Skipper Evelyn ‘Eve’ Jones [*’Spirit’ keeper Richa Ghosh] *International players Sophie Devine (NZ), Erin Burns & Tess Flintoff (Australia, WBBL), Sterre Kalis (NL) with Amy Jones, Issy Wong (England) & u-19’s World Cup player Charis Paveley. Without Hannah Baker. *Sophie Devine 4(3) ‘top-edged’ to ‘deep-square,’ caught by diving Amelia Kerr, from Dani Gibson. *3rd Umpire confirmed Amelia Kerr caught with her fingers beneath. *Lauren Filer’s first set-of-five plus 2 ‘no balls’ gifted 22 runs. *Tess Flintoff 2(3) played-on from her inner-thigh to Charlie Dean’s (1/14) 3rd delivery, said to ‘miss a ‘sweep shot’ through ‘mid-wicket.’’ *After 25 balls ‘Power-play,’ Phoenix were level-pegging: 46/2 (vs 50/1) *3 balls later, Sterre Kalis 28(16) went plumb ’leg before’ to Sarah Glenn, confirming ‘Umpire’s call’ via ‘Hawk-Eye’ ball-tracking. *With Sarah Glenn paired with Amelia Kerr, Erin Burns and Amy Jones scampered ‘ones’ and ‘twos’ when the asking rate was 2-runs-per-ball. *Firstly, Amy Jones 14 (14) drove straight to ‘extra cover,’ caught by Charlie Dean from Amelia Kerr. *Four balls later, Erin Burns 13(8) was caught at ‘long-on’ by Dani Gibson, also from Amelia Kerr. *By mid-way ‘Phoenix’ were 78/5 (vs 87/1.) ’Phoenix’s’ 5 remaining wickets fell at short intervals.*Abbey Freeborn 12(10) was ‘run out’ by Dani Gibson’s throw from deep-mid-wicket to Richa Ghosh at the striker’s end; when going for a second run. *Secondly, Eve Jones 12(11) threw away her wicket coming down-the-wicket, to Amelia Kerr’s spin; ‘bowled’ rather than ’stumped.’ *7 balls later, Issy Wong 1(3) was caught at ‘long-on’ by Amelia Kerr, bowled by Dani Gibson (2/11)*Emily Arlott 5(6) was caught ‘nonchalantly,’ by Grace Harris – said to be a ‘fine catch that hung-in-the-air,’ from Sarah Glenn (2/22) Finally, on 99/9, Katie Levick 0(3) was bowled by ‘Spirit’s’ best bowler Amelia Kerr (4/13) for a 3rd ball ‘duck.’ *Best ‘Phoenix’ batter was Sterre Kalis 28(16).

Match summary: ’Spirit’s’ innings was dominated by Grace Harris ‘phenomenal power-hitting,’ setting the ‘competition’s second-highest team score’ 172/5; second-only to ‘Welsh Fire’s’ 181/3 (Aug 14.) “Phoenix’ batters became frustrated when losing wickets at regular intervals, whenever batters took risks to accelerate their score. ’Spirit’s’ best bowler NZ’s Amelia Kerr took a ‘4-fer’ and told commentators she was ‘happy’ with her figures. Appreciating it was ‘pretty good’ to finish the tournament on a ‘high,’ POTM Meerkat Match HeroGrace Harris told Alex Tudor she wanted to ‘roll-up the wicket’ (to play again on that perfect pitch); ‘had a ball,’ with her bat (named ‘zinger-stacker,’ after a ’well known’ Aussie burger.) Grace Harris added that she’d ‘enjoyed being skippered’ by Heather Knight, rather than play against her; and she wouldn’t rule-out returning for next year’s tournament: a definite ‘maybe.‘

Match result: London Spirit Women 172/5 beat Birmingham Phoenix Women 99/10 by 73 runs (with 24 balls remaining)

*’Spirit’s’ batting: 172/5 (from 100 balls@1.7 runs-per-ball) Grace Harris 87(47), Richa Ghosh 29(17), Danielle ‘Dani’ Gibson 18(10), Amelia Kerr 17(17); ‘Phoenix’s’ bowling: Erin Burns (1/26), Katie Levick (1/29), Charis Paveley (1/29); Fow 1-46, 2-87, 3-103, 4-151, 5-172.

*‘Phoenix’s’ batting: 99/10 (from 76/100 balls@1.3 runs-per-ball) Sterre Kalis 28(16), Amy Jones 14(14), Erin Burns 13(8), Abbey Freeborn 12(10), Eve Jones 12(11); ’Spirit’s’ bowling: Amelia Kerr 4/13, Dani Gibson 2/11, Sarah Glenn 2/22, Charlie Dean 1/14; Fow 1-5, 2-31, 3-47, 4-66, 5-69, 6-88, 7-92, 8-97, 9-99, 10-99.

*Scorecard courtesy of BBC Sport @URL https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000748

*Match highlights (6m28s) courtesy of Sky Sports & ‘The Hundred’ @URL https://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/12946760/london-spirit-destroy-birmingham-phoenix-as-harris-hits-87-runs-off-47-balls

*Standings @URL https://www.thehundred.com/standings/

‘Midlands’ derby’ that was for ‘Rockets,’ was ‘The Last Chance Saloon:’ if they lost, they were ‘out;’ whereas even if ‘Phoenix’ won, they look set to receive the tournament’s ‘wooden spoon.’ When batting second, TV analysts found that ‘Phoenix’ had struggled to ‘knock runs off’ (their opponents scores) to win matches. Batting first, ‘Rockets’ put pressure on ‘Phoenix’ bowlers from the outset. Partnered by skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt POTM Meerkat Match Hero Bryony Smith (pictured) [64 runs from 40 balls] was ’outstanding’ as the only batter to score ‘fifty.’ After the match, Bryony Smith told Ravi Shastri that ‘Phoenix’ bowlers had done well, to’ take-the-pace-off.’  That made scoring more difficult for ‘Rockets’ as the match went down to the last delivery. Commentators added that it was Katherine Sciver-Brunt’s ‘final home match’ before retirement, playing at Trent Bridge. Introduced for SKY TV by Lydia Greenway, Mike Atherton (former England players); Charles Dagnall & Ravi Shastri (former India Coach & Skipper.) Match highlights from SKY Sports TV – please see below. Weather at Trent Bridge provided ‘perfect’ conditions for playing cricket.

TR-W *Skipper Natalie ‘Nat’ Sciver-Brunt [*Amy Jones keeping wicket for ‘Phoenix’] *International players Harmanpreet Kaur (India), Alana King (Australia) & Lizelle Lee (ex Rep. South Africa) with Natalie Sciver-Brunt (England); Bryony Smith & Kirstie Gordon (England ‘A’) Fran Wilson (ex England) & Alexa Stonehouse (England u-19’s) *Lizelle Lee 3(8) was caught by Eve Jones from Sophie Devine (1/19) *Rockets made an ‘emphatic’ start with 45/1 after 25 balls ‘Power-play.’ *Skipper Natalie ‘Nat’ Sciver-Brunt 18(11); was bowled ‘middle-and-off’ by Emily Arlott: said to be a ‘big-wicket’ could have done more damage. *After 50 balls, ‘Rockets’ were 80/2. *Harmanpreet Kaur 5(8) went ‘leg-before’ upon Third Umpire’s review (‘Hawk-Eye’); from Emily Arlott. *‘Strategic-time-out’ called after 75 balls on 112/3. *Bryony Smith 64(40) was stumped by keeper Amy Jones, coming down-the-wicket to Katie Levick. *Fran Wilson 22(19) was bowled ‘middle stump’ by Katie Levick (2/30.) *Joanne ‘Jo’ Gardner 7(10) was caught one-handed from an ‘outside-edge’ by keeper Amy Jones from ‘Phoenix’ best bowler, Emily Arlott (3/15.) *Naomi Dattani 2*not out(3); & Alana King 2*not out(1); Best ‘Rockets’ batter was Bryony Smith 64(40.)

BP-W *Skipper Evelyn ‘Eve’ Jones [*Rockets keeper Lizelle Lee] *International players Sophie Devine (NZ), Erin Burns & Tess Flintoff (Australia, WBBL), Sterre Kalis (NL) with Amy Jones, Issy Wong (England) & u-19’s World Cup player Hannah Baker. *After 25 balls, ‘Phoenix’ were 21/0 (vs 45/1.) *Eve Jones 16(20), ‘run out’ following a missed stumping, by Alexa Stonehouse throwing to the ‘non-striker’s’ end. *5 balls later Sophie Devine 28(25), caught ‘on appeal’ by keeper Lizelle Lee from Kirstie Gordon (1/20) *After 50 balls, ‘Phoenix’ were 54/2 (vs 80/2.) *Erin Burns 16(17) was caught by ‘mid-wicket’ by Nat Sciver-Brunt from Alana King 1/23; after checking for ’no ball.’ *Emily Arlott 9(3) was ‘run-out’ by Bryony Smith when taking an ‘overthrow’ from Katherine Sciver-Brunt  *’Phoenix’s’ best batter was Amy Jones was 46*not out (30), *’Rockets’’ best bowler was Kirstie Gordon 1/20.

Match summary: Previously, whenever batting second, commentators said that ‘Phoenix’ had struggled to ‘knock runs off’ (their opponents scores) to win matches. Batting first, ‘Rockets’ put pressure on ‘Phoenix’ as soon as they made an ‘emphatic’ start, ’scoring quickly’ from their ‘PowerPlay (45/1 vs 21/0.) As mentioned above, POTM Meerkat Match Hero Bryony Smith was ’star-of-the-day’ as the only batter to score ‘fifty’ for ‘Rockets.’ Amy Jones closed four runs short of ‘fifty,’ as once again, ‘Phoenix’ struggled to ‘knock runs off’ their target score and closed a few runs short of a consolation win. Separately, commentators speculated that ‘Rockets’ aspirations to progress to the play-off/eliminator still ‘looked slim.’ Separately, ‘Fire’ looked set to win or tie one (or both) of their their two remaining matches: in which case ‘Fire’ would qualify ahead of ‘Rockets’ on points. Latest table @URL https://www.thehundred.com/standings/

Match result: Trent Rockets Women 134/6 beat Birmingham Phoenix Women 131/4 by 3 runs

*’Rockets’’ batting: 134/6 (from 100 balls @1.3 runs-per-over) Bryony Smith 64(40); Fran Wilson 22(19), Natalie ‘Nat’ Sciver-Brunt 18(11); *’Phoenix’’ bowling: Emily Arlott (3/15), Katie Levick (2/30), Sophie Devine (1/19); Fow 1-36, 2-80, 3-87, 4-114, 5-127, 6-132.

*’Phoenix’s batting:  131/4 (from 100 balls @1.3 r-p-o) Amy Jones 46*not out (30), Sophie Devine 28(25), Eve Jones 16(20), Erin Burns 16(17); *’Rockets’’ bowling: Kirstie Gordon 1/20, Alana King 1/23. Fow 1-47, 2-51, 3-94, 4-106.

*Scorecard courtesy of BBC Sport @URL https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000741

*Match highlights (6m32s) courtesy of Sky Sports @URL https://www.skysports.com/the-hundred/news/36890/12942873/the-hundred-trent-rockets-still-have-slim-hopes-of-play-off-place-after-beating-birmingham-phoenix

Twice runners-up ‘Brave’ were said to need ‘one more point’ to book their place in the finals. Commentators talked of a ‘tough day away from the office’ for ‘Phoenix,’ who’ll play their remaining games for pride. During the match, Georgia Adams also extended her lead, as the tournament’s leading-wicket-taker, taking two more wickets. Receiving POTM Meerkat Match Hero award from Mike Atherton, ‘Brave’s top-scorer Danni Wyatt [who scored 43 runs from 33 balls] told TV viewers it was ‘great to get another win,’ and paid credit to ‘Brave’s’ team (pictured.) Danni Wyatt (total 169 runs) was said to have the 5th highest cumulative score-to-date, on the batter’s leader-board. Fellow opener Smriti Mandhana tops the all-time batter’s leaderboard with 600 runs (at time of writing.) Earlier, former players found the pitch was ‘well-suited’ to spin-bowling, with scope for a ‘whole array’ of slower balls. Introduced for SKY TV by Nick Knight, Lydia Greenway & Mike Atherton (ex-England) with Natalie Germanos (Rep. South Africa). Also with Maitlan Brown (‘Brave’) & Sterre Kalis (‘Phoenix’) via player’s microphones. Match highlights courtesy of Sky Sports (please see below.) Weather at Southampton was sunny, almost cloudless, but cooler than average for mid-August.

SB-W *Skipper/coach Anya Shrubsole with unchanged side. [*Amy Jones keeping wicket for ‘Phoenix’] *Internationals Smriti Mandhana (India), Maitlan Brown (Australia WBBL) & Chloe Tryon (Rep. South Africa.) *England’s Danni Wyatt, Maia Bouchier & Freya Kemp. *Facing opening bowlers Tess Flintoff paired with Sophie Devine, ‘Brave’ were 36/0 after 25 balls ‘Power-play’. *4 Spinners bowled wicketless, up to half-way 68/0. *Change-of-pace when Danni Wyatt 43(33) who ‘didn’t have a shot to go to,’ was bowled by Emily Arlott. *11 balls later, Smriti Mandhana 39(32) was ruled ’leg before’ from Emily Arlott; 39(32.) *Commentators thought the Umpire’s decision was worth review, but Smriti seemed ‘happy to walk-off ‘without asking the question.’ *Had ‘Brave’ reviewed, ‘hawk-eye’ would have given as ’not-out.’ *Two wickets fell from the last ten balls. *Georgia Adams 9(11) ’swung across the line’ and was stumped by Amy Jones from Katie Levick (1/23) *Maia Bouchier 19(19) missed an ‘off-side-sweep’ and was bowled from ‘glove-to-stump’ by Erin Burns(1/18) *Chloe Tryon was 3*not out(3) & Maitlan Brown was 7*not out(3) *Best ‘Brave’ batter was Danni Wyatt 43(33) *Best ‘Phoenix ‘bowler was Emily Arlott 2/22

BP-W *Skipper Evelyn ‘Eve’ Jones [*’Brave’ keeper Rhianna Southby] *International players Sophie Devine (NZ), Erin Burns & Tess Flintoff (Australia, WBBL), Sterre Kalis (NL) with Amy Jones, Issy Wong (England) & u-19’s World Cup player Hannah Baker. *Also Scotland’s Abtaha Maqsood. *Sophie Devine 4(2) was caught  by Danni Wyatt from Lauren Bell’s third ball. *After 25 balls ‘Power-play,’ Phoenix were 38/1 (vs 36/0) *Sterre Kalis 20(18) went plumb ’leg before’ Georgia Adams. *Eve Jones 21(18) sliced upwards, but was caught ‘in the covers’ by Georgia Adams, from Kalea Moore. *By mid—way ‘Phoenix’ were 64/3 (vs 68/0) *Amy Jones partnered by Erin Burns added  43 runs for Phoenix’s 4th wicket. *Said to be a ‘massive moment, ‘Amy Jones 33 (23) was ‘run-out;’ playing at a ‘wide’ ball and beaten by Maia Bouchier’s long-throw from ‘long-on’ to the striker’s end. *After hitting Georgia Adams for 10 runs from 2 balls, Erin Burns 29(21) was caught ‘in-the-deep’ by Smriti Mandhana, from Georgia Adams. *4 balls later, Abbey Freeborn 5(10) (gaffed elsewhere as ‘Amy’) was caught at ‘mid-off’ by Smriti Mandhana from Lauren Bell’s ‘pace-off’ slower-ball. *Tess Flintoff 0(2) top-edged a ‘steepler,’ was caught & bowled by Anya Shrubsole (2/30) running round and standing her ground, for a 2nd-ball ‘duck.’ *Hannah Baker 1(2) was stumped from the final ball by Rhianna Southby, coming down-the-wicket to Anya Shrubsole*Emily Arlott was 6*not out (4) & Katie Levick was 2*not out(1.) *Best ‘Phoenix ‘batter was Amy Jones 33 (23) *Best ‘Brave’ bowler was  bowler Georgia Adams 2/25. *As mentioned above, Georgia Adams remains top leading-wicket-taker leaderboard, taking 15-wickets-to-date. [2nd placed ‘Invincibles’ bowlers Marizanne Kapp & Shabnim Ismail with 9 wickets each]

Match summary: ‘Brave’ openers Danni Wyatt 43(33) and Smriti Mandhana 39(32) put 84 ‘runs-on-the-board.’ Danni Wyatt chalked-up the 5th highest cumulative score-to-date and Smriti Mandhana wnr top of the all-time batter’s leaderboard with 600 runs, overtaking Tammy Beaumont. Highlight of Phoenix’s reply was Amy Jones partnered by Erin Burns adding 43 runs for Phoenix’s 4th wicket. Commentators seemed convinced that Erin Burns would ‘take it all the way.’ Skipper Shrubsole returned to bowl, to ‘close down the match’ with immediate success. Anya Shrubsole, ‘stood her own ground’ to catch a vertical top-edged ‘steepler’ from Tess Flintoff, from her own bowling. Finally Hannah Baker was stumped by Rhianna Southby from Anya Shrubsole’s final ball. As mentioned above, POTM Meerkat Match Hero Danni Wyatt – said it was ‘great to get another win.’  ‘Phoenix’ were said to have ‘got close.’ ‘Brave’ need ‘one more point’ to  book their place in the finals: hoping to win the Women’s tournament’s trophy at their third attempt.

Match result: Southern Brave Women 132/4 beat Birmingham Phoenix Women 129/8 by 3 runs

*’Brave’s’ batting: 132/4 (from 100 balls @1.3 runs-per-ball) Danni Wyatt 43(33), Smriti Mandhana 39(32), Maia Bouchier 19(19); *’Phoenix’s’ bowling: Emily Arlott 2/22, Erin Burns 1/18, Katie Levick 1/23; Fow 1-84, 2-94, 3-121, 4-124.

*’Phoenix’s’ 129/8  (from 100 balls @1.3 runs-per-ball) Amy Jones 33 (23), Erin Burns 29(21), Eve Jones 21(18), Sterre Kalis 20(18); *’Brave’’s bowling: Georgia Adams 2/25, Lauren Bell 2/27, Anya Shrubsole 2/30, Kalea Moore 1/24; Fow 1 -5, 2-45, 3-55, 4-98, 5-118, 6-118, 7-121, 8-127.

*Scorecard courtesy of BBC Sport @URL https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000738

*Match highlights courtesy of SKY Sports @URL https://www.skysports.com/cricket/news/12123/12941294/the-hundred-southern-brave-women-and-men-make-it-double-delight-against-birmingham-phoenix

Two former New Zealand skippers Sophie Devine (Phoenix) and Suzie Bates (Invincibles) came head-to-head, each hoping ‘to stay in the competition.’ Sophie Devine’s ‘Phoenix’ was said to have had a ‘poor-run-of-form.’ Missing their star-batter Alyssa Healy (Australia,) ‘Phoenix’ are yet to chalk-up their first win. Twice-defending champions ‘Invincibles’ was skippered for a second time by Suzie Bates:- appointed as skipper for remaining matches in place of Dane van Niekerk (injured.) Making top-score for ‘Invincibles,’ POTM Meerkat Match Hero Marizanne Kapp [64 runs*not out (from 40 balls)] came-in ‘at a difficult time’ exhibiting a ‘positive approach,’ hitting 6 ‘fours’ and 2 ‘sixes.’ Sophie Devine replied with a skipper’s ‘fifty,’ until caught at ‘long leg’ by Marizanne Kapp; leaving ‘Phoenix’ tail-enders with ‘too much to do.’ Introduced by Nasser Hussain, Alex Tudor & Dominic Cork (former England players); with Dinesh Karthik (ex India) & guest commentator Ollie Pope – Ashes series.) Weather at Edgbaston was overcast, light breeze and with a ‘few spots of rain.’

OI-W *Skipper Suzie Bates [*Phoenix keeper Amy Jones] *International players Marizanne Kapp (Rep. South Africa) Suzie Bates ex-skipper NZ with Alice Capsey (England); Paige Scholfield, Mady Villiers & Ryana Macdonald-Gay (England ‘A’) Lauren Winfield-Hill (ex England keeper) Katie George (ex England) & Cordelia Griffith (England u-19’s.) Including Kira Chathli. Without Dane Van Niekerk. *Skipper Suzie Bates 9(14) was stumped by Amy Jones from Katie Levick. *Alice Capsey 0(1) was caught  by Amy Jones bowled by Katie Levick (2/19) *After 60 balls, ‘Invincibles’ were 78/2. *Play continued ‘with a few spots of rain.’ *Lauren Winfield-Hill 41(33), was caught at ‘long-on’ by Sophie Devine from Hannah Baker *Playing a ‘good’ (short) innings, Paige Scholfield 17(9) was bowled by Tess Flintoff (1/30) *Cordelia Griffith 2(3) was ‘brilliantly’ stumped by Amy Jones from Hannah Baker (2/10) *Former keeper Dinesh Karthik added that Amy Jones’ keeping was ‘really brilliant;’ and ‘an absolute revelation.’ *Commended for her ‘positive approach,’ Marizanne Kapp 64*not out(40), *Mady Villiers was 3*not out(1) *Best ‘Invincibles’ batter was Marizanne Kapp 64*not out(40) *Best ‘Phoenix’ bowler was Hannah Baker who took 2/10.

BP-W *Skipper Evelyn ‘Eve’ Jones [*Invincibles keeper Lauren Winfield-Hill] *International players Sophie Devine (NZ), Erin Burns & Tess Flintoff (Australia, WBBL), Sterre Kalis – (NL) with Amy Jones, Issy Wong (England) & u-19’s World Cup player Hannah Baker. *Making her 1st ‘The Hundred’ ‘fifty,’ Sophie Devine 53(34), was caught by Marizanne Kapp from Ryana Macdonald-Gay *After 60 balls, ‘Phoenix’ were level-pegging on 78/1 (vs 78/2.) *‘An important wicket,’ Amy Jones 2(5) was caught by Cordelia Griffith from Ryana Macdonald-Gay *Erin Burns 17(13) was bowled by Paige Scholfield *Tess Flintoff 27(33) was stumped by Lauren Winfield-Hill from Paige Scholfield *Eve Jones was ‘run-out’ by Paige Scholfield *Sterre Kalis was 9*not out (4) *‘Hitting a big ball,’ Issy Wong 18(9), was caught from a top-edge at ‘short-third’ by Kira Chathli, from Paige Scholfield’s last ball; ending the match. *Commentators added that ‘Invincibles” fielders were ‘outstanding.’ Best ‘Phoenix’ batter was Sophie Devine who played a ‘skipper’s innings’ with ‘fifty.’ *Best ‘Invincibles bowler was Paige Scholfield who took 3/30.

Match summary ‘Invincibles’ didn’t start well, losing skipper Suzie Bates and Alice Capsey in quick succession. Lauren Winfield-Hill was dropped early, but added a match-winning 59 runs in 42 balls partnered by Marizanne Kapp.  ‘Phoenix’ replied with Sophie Devine hitting ‘fifty’ from 26 balls until caught by Marizanne Kapp (as mentioned above.) Sterre Kalis gave the home crowd a glimmer of hope by hitting back-to-back ‘fours.’ With 11 runs needed for ‘Phoenix’ batters to win from the final ball, a final catch was taken by Kira Chathli, prompting commentators to laud ‘Invincibles’ players for their ‘outstanding’ fielding. After the match, Marizanne Kapp received her POTM Meerkat Match Hero cap-and-medal from Alex Tudor for ‘coming-in at a ‘difficult time;’ and playing some ‘lovely shots.’ Twice defending champions ‘Invincibles’ (5 points) move-up to 4th place. Without a win at half-way, ‘Phoenix’ (1 point), need a ‘good-run’ of form to avoid receiving their first ‘wooden spoon.’ For post-script, commentators gaffed on ‘Invincibles’ back-to-back wins, when they’d lost to ‘Superchargers’ at Headingley, only 2 days beforehand; on 11 August.

Match result: Oval Invincibles Women 142/5 beat Birmingham Phoenix Women 132/6 by 10 runs

*Invincibles’ batting: 142/5 (100 balls @1.4 runs-per-ball); Marizanne Kapp 64*not out(40), Lauren Winfield-Hill 41(33), Paige Scholfield 17(9); *Phoenix’ bowling: Hannah Baker 2/10, Katie Levick 2/19, Tess Flintoff 1/30. Fow 1-31, 2-31, 3-90, 4-112, 5-116

*Phoenix’ batting: 132/6 (100 balls @1.3 runs-per-ball) Sophie Devine 53(34),Tess Flintoff 27(33), Issy Wong 18(9), Erin Burns 17(13); *Invincibles’ bowling: Paige Scholfield 3/30, Ryana Macdonald-Gay 2/28; Fow 1-68, 2-81, 3-101, 4-104, 5-114, 6-132.

*Scorecard courtesy of BBC Sport @URL https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000735

*Match highlights courtesy of Sky Sports @URL https://www.skysports.com/cricket/news/12140/12939378/oval-invincibles-keep-hundred-hopes-alive-with-win-vs-struggling-birmingham-phoenix

‘The Hundred’ history was re-written when fast-bowler Shabnim Ismail’s ‘hat-trick’ (last) ball (of the match) clinched ‘Fire’s’ third win by 3 runs.’ Electing ‘Phoenix’ to win until the very end, commentators changed their tune: pointing out that ‘Fire’ had already beaten both of last year’s finalists. POTM Meerkat Match Hero was awarded to Shabnim Ismail. Commentators added that Shabnim Ismail became the second bowler to score a ‘hat-trick’ during ‘The Hundred.’ Earlier, skipper Tammy Beaumont had told commentators that ‘Fire’ players expect to win as the team’s mentality is ‘completely different’ to previous years. During the interval between innings, Hayley Matthews added that Fire were ‘happy’ with their score. Introduced by Mark Butcher, Lydia Greenway, Charles Dagnall, (ex England); also Simon Doull (NZ TV personality) & Amber Sandhu (BBC radio WM.) Guests Stuart Broad (England Ashes series) & Claire Daniel, Edgbaston Operations Director, promoting ‘wellness’ of players and ’sustainability’ of cricket. Match highlights courtesy of Sky Sports (please see below.) Weather at Edgbaston was rain-free with ‘bright sunshine,’ and cooler than expected for August.

WF-W *Skipper Tammy Beaumont [*Phoenix keeper Amy Jones] *Internationals Shabnim Ismail (Rep. South Africa), Hayley Matthews (skipper WIndies), Laura Harris (Australia Women’s Big Bash League), England’s Tammy Beaumont, Sophia Dunkley & Freya Davies; with Scotland’s Sarah Bryce. *After 25 balls ‘Power-play,’ ‘Fire’ were 38/0. *Hayley Matthews 23(23) was ballooned to ‘backward point,’ caught by Sterre Kalis, from Hannah Baker. *After 50 balls (mid-way) ‘Fire’ were 72/1. *Tammy Beaumont 59(40) was caught at ‘deep mid-wicket’ by Erin Burns diving right, from Tess Flintoff (1/11) *With 3rd best competition strike-rate-to-date, Laura Harris 1(4) missed a ‘reverse sweep,’ going ‘leg-before’ to Emily Arlott *Sophia Dunkley 25(19) was caught ‘at backward point’ by Sterre Kalis from Hannah Baker (2/21) *Sarah Bryce 1(3) was caught short of ‘mid-off’ by diving Tess Flintoff, from Emily Arlott (2/33) *Two wickets fell from the last two balls, a time-penalty limiting the number of boundary fielders. *Georgia Elwiss  10(9) was caught by Eve Jones arriving from cover, from Katie Levick  *Next ball, Freya Davies 0(1) was caught at ‘deep-mid-wicket’ for a ‘golden duck’ by Erin Burns jumping high, from Katie Levick (2/28) *Emily Windsor 3*(3) was ’not out.’ *’Fire’s’ top-scorer was Tammy Beaumont 59(40) *Phoenix’s best bowler was Hannah Baker 2/21.

BP-W *Skipper Evelyn ‘Eve’ Jones [*Fire keeper Sarah Bryce] *International players Sophie Devine (NZ), Erin Burns & Tess Flintoff (Australia, WBBL), Sterre Kalis (NL) with Amy Jones, Issy Wong (England) & u-19’s World Cup players Charis Pavely and Hannah Baker. *Without Charis Pavely. *After 25 balls ‘Power-play,’ Phoenix were level-pegging: 32/0(vs38/0) *Sophie Devine 29(19) was bowled by a ‘full toss’ deflecting onto middle stump, from Alex Griffiths ‘a massive wicket.’ *After 50 balls (mid-way) ‘Phoenix’ were 64/1 (vs72/1.) *Three wickets fell from the last three balls. *Firstly, Tess Flintoff 55(45) was bowled by a ‘half-volley’ to leg stump, from Shabnim Ismail. *Secondly, Erin Burns 0(1) was caught by Claire Nicholas, short of ‘third’ for a golden duck from Shabnim Ismail *Finally, Issy Wong 0(1) was bowled by a full-length ‘Yorker’ to ‘leg-stump’ for another golden duck from Shabnim Ismail’s ‘hat-trick’ ball, to win the match. *Non-striker Amy Jones 48*‘not out’(34.) *’Phoenix’s’ top-scorer was  Tess Flintoff 55(45.) *’Fire’s’ best bowler was Shabnim Ismail 3/31.

Match summary Cliff-hanger ending with three wickets falling from the last three balls, to win the match. As mentioned above, commentators were quick to point out that ‘Fire’ had already beaten both of last year’s finalists; but raised doubt until the final ball was bowled, whether Shabnim Ismail could take a ‘hat trick’ from the last 3 balls. Commentators added that Phoenix’s top-three batters put runs on-the-board, but middle-order batters ‘couldn’t get the job done. Top-scorer Tess Flintoff was ‘disappointed’ given the ‘nice position’ (until the last 3 balls.) Receiving her POTM Meerkat Match Hero cap-and-medal award, Shabnim Ismail said she believed in a bowler’s ability to ‘bounce back’ (to win a match); wanted to play another final; and ‘loved’ coming to the UK to play ‘good cricket.’ ‘Fire’s’ third win returns them undefeated, to the top-of-table, with four rounds played to date.

Match result: Welsh Fire Women 137/7 beat Birmingham Phoenix Women 134/4 by 3 runs

*Fire batting: 137/7: (from 100 balls@1.3 runs-per-ball); Tammy Beaumont 59(40), Sophia Dunkley 25(19), Hayley Matthews 23(23), Georgia Elwiss 10(9); *Phoenix bowling: Hannah Baker 2/21, Katie Levick 2/28,  Emily Arlott 2/33, Tess Flintoff 1/11; Fow 1-72, 2-95, 3-96, 4-124, 5-132, 6-137, 7-137.

*Phoenix batting: 134/10 (from 100 balls@1.3 runs-per-ball); Tess Flintoff 55(45) Amy Jones 48*not out(34), Sophie Devine 29(19); *Fire’s bowling: Shabnim Ismail 3/31, Alex Griffiths 1/23; Fow 1-41, 2-134, 3-134, 4-134.

*Scorecard courtesy of BBC Sport @URL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000730

*Match report courtesy of Warwickshire CCC @URL https://edgbaston.com/fixtures/womens/birmingham-phoenix-vs-welsh-fire-10-august-2023-2/

Damp outfield conditions frequently slowed balls short of scoring ‘four.’  Unlike Phoenix, Originals lacked match-practice with two matches washed-out. ‘The Hundred’ history was made when Originals debutante spinner Fi Morris took 5 Phoenix wickets for 7 runs, scoring the competition’s first 5-fer. Fi Morris was also awarded POTM Meerkat Match Hero. Previously, commentators reported that Marizanne Kapp took 4/9 (Invincibles vs Brave, 2021); and third place was shared between Lauren Bell and Tash Farrant who’d both taken 4/10. Introduced by Nick Knight, with Natalie Germanos (Rep. South Africa), Simon Doull (NZ TV personality) & Dominic Cork (ex England); with guest players Tammy Beaumont (Welsh Fire), Jimmy Anderson & Stuart Broad (England Ashes series.) Match highlights courtesy of Sky Sports (please see below.) Weather at Old Trafford had improved after several day’s rain. ‘Sunny’ with blue sky surrounded by white clouds, cool for August.

BP-W *Skipper Evelyn ‘Eve’ Jones [Originals keeper Ellie Threlkeld] *International players Sophie Devine (NZ), Erin Burns & Tess Flintoff (Australia, WBBL) with Amy Jones, Issy Wong (England) & u-19’s World Cup players Charis Pavely and Hannah Baker. *After 25 balls ‘Power-play,’ Phoenix were 25/0: the second time Phoenix had ‘not lost a wicket’ during their Power-play. *Eve Jones 18(20) found an inside-edge, but was ‘stumped’ by Ellie Threlkeld, from Sophie Ecclestone. *Sophie Devine 27(25) hit ‘slog-sweep’ leg side and was caught at ‘deep-square’ by Fi Morris (on review) from Sophie Ecclestone. *Erin Burns 0(2) was caught behind by Ellie Threlkeld (on review) for a send-ball ‘duck’ from Sophie Ecclestone. *Amy Jones 7(7) went ‘leg before’ to Fi Morris and made a slow departure. *Tess Flintoff 2(6) was caught at ‘long-on’ by Katie George, from Amanda-Jade Wellington (1/16); the ball ’turning away’ from the right-hander. *Emily Arlott 5(7) went plumb ‘leg before,’ ‘middle-and-leg’ to Sophie Ecclestone (4/11.) *Abbey Freeborn 12(11) went ‘leg before,’ ‘cannon-to-middle’ to Fi Morris, *Issy Wong 4(5) was caught ‘in-the-deep’ by Kathryn Bryce from Fi Morris. *Facing a ‘quicker’ ball Hannah Baker 2(3) was bowled by Fi Morris. *At that point, two ‘Originals’ bowlers had taken 4-fers. *Charis Pavely 4(7) went ‘leg before’ to Fi Morris (5/7) chalking-up Fi Morris’ 5-fer and making history. *Katie Levick was 2*not out (3.) *Best Phoenix batter was Sophie Devine 27(25) *Best Original bowler was Fi Morris 5/7.

MO-W *Skipper Sophie Ecclestone *[Phoenix keeper Amy Jones] *International players Laura Wolvaardt (Rep. South Africa), Amanda-Jade Wellington (Australia ‘A’ & WBBL) & Deandre Dottin (ex-WIndies); with Sophie Ecclestone and Emma Lamb (England) & Kathryn Bryce (Scotland.) *Debutante Fi Morris. *Emma Lamb 0(1) went for a ‘golden duck,’ caught behind by Amy Jones from Tess Flintoff.  *After 25 balls ‘Power-play,’ Originals remained level-pegging on 23/1 [vs 25/0] & 51/1 [vs 52/1] by  mid-way. *’Strategic-time-out’ was called after 55 balls, with Originals 61/1 needing 27 runs to win. *Laura Wolvaardt 38(34) went ‘leg before’ to Hannah Baker. *Ami Campbell 28(34) was caught at ‘mid-wicket’ by Abbey Freeborn from Katie Levick. *Deandre Dottin 6(12) was ‘run out’ accidentally by Hannah Baker flicking the return-ball onto the non-striker’s stumps and finding Deandre Dottin out of her crease. *Fi Morris 0(2) went ‘leg before’ (with no reviews left) for a 2nd ball duck, from Katie Levick. *Tension mounted until *Kathryn Bryce 4*not out (8) struck the winning ‘four’ through ‘backward point,’ with one ball remaining. *Skipper Sophie Ecclestone 6*not out (9.) *Best batter Laura Wolvaardt 38(34); *Best Phoenix bowler Katie Levick 2/12.

Match summary: Phoenix got off to a slow start, pinned down by Mahika Gaur, who conceded 5 runs from her first ten deliveries. After the match, Originals’ skipper Sophie Ecclestone added that the ‘Thunder Girls’ hadn’t played since early July, and lauded 17yo Mahika Gaur who’d demonstrated ‘perfect ball movement.’ Excitement mounted inside the commentary box when wo Phoenix bowlers had taken four wickets, and Fi Morris made history by taking five wickets. Awarding Fi Morris POTM Meerkat Match Hero cap-and-medal, Fi Morris told Dominic Cork she was very happy with her performance but was unaware she’d made history. Previously, when Phoenix bowled, commentators became frustrated not to see more use made of ’strike bowlers’ (especially Issy Wong) who could potentially ‘win the match.’ The match reached its climax with Originals losing 2 wickets with 3 balls. With reassurance from her skipper at the non-striker’s end, Kathryn Bryce hit the winning ‘four’ with one ball remaining.

Match result: Manchester Originals Women 91/5 beat Birmingham Phoenix Women 87/10 by five wickets with 1 ball remaining

*Phoenix’s batting 87/10 (from 96/100 balls@0.9 runs-per-ball) Sophie Devine 27(25) Evelyn Jones 18(20), Abbey Freeborn 12(11); *Originals’ bowling: Fi Morris 5/7, Sophie Ecclestone 4/11, Amanda-Jade Wellington 1/16. Fow 1-39, 2-52, 3-52, 4-57, 5-62, 6-74, 7-75, 8-81, 9-83, 10-87.

*Originals’ batting  91/5 (from 99/100 balls@0.9 runs-per-ball) Laura Wolvaardt 38(34), Ami Campbell 28(34); *Phoenix’s bowling: Katie Levick 2/12, Tess Flintoff 1/10, Hannah Baker 1/15; Fow 1-1, 2-69, 3-75, 4-75, 5-85.

*Scorecard courtesy of BBC Sport @URL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000726

*Match highlights (6m22s) courtesy of Sky Sports @URL https://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/12935655/highlights-fi-morris-records-five-fer-on-debut-to-help-edge-out-birmingham-phoenix

Match result: ‘Match abandoned without a ball bowled’ courtesy of BBC Sport @URL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000723

The Hundred Women 2023 Latest standings @URL https://www.thehundred.com/standings

Commentators lauded both teams for a ‘thrilling game,’ (albeit a little one-sided) Superchargers’ ‘All-rounder’ Alice Davidson-Richards ‘AD-R’ (pictured) was ’superb’ with the ball; awarded POTM: ‘Meerkat Match Hero’ cap & medal. Overall, AD-R took three wickets, two catches plus a direct-hit at stumps that caused a ‘run-out.’ For an encore, Alice Davidson-Richards scored the match-winning ‘six.’ Match was introduced for SKY Sports by TV presenter Jacqueline Shepherd, with cricket commentators Lydia Greenway OBE & Mark Butcher. Also with Simon Doull (NZ TV personality) on-field with England bowler James ‘Jimmy’ Anderson OBE. Additional commentary from Alex Tudor (former England player) and Kumar Sangakkara (former Sri Lanka skipper.) Weather at Headingley was ‘dry, cool and cloudy’ for August.

BP-W *Skipper Eve Jones, said to have stood-in ‘at 4 days notice’ (for Ellyse Perry.) *[Bess Heath keeping wicket for Superchargers] *International players Sophie Devine (former NZ skipper), Erin Burns & Tess Flintoff (Australia Women’s Big Bash League WBBL.) *Eve Jones 10(8) was caught from a straight drive to ‘mid-on,’ by Alice Davidson-Richards, from Kate Cross (1/26.) *After 25 balls Power-play, Phoenix were 36/1 *Amy Jones 13(13) was ‘well-timed,’ but caught at ‘square’ by debutante Leah Dobson from AD-R; *Erin Burns 3(5) was spectacularly caught-and-bowled by Georgia Wareham (1/24): a ‘game-changing’ moment. *At mid-way Phoenix were 55/3. *Tess Flintoff 3(4) went for a carbon copy of an earlier dismissal: caught at ‘square’ by Leah Dobson from AD-R; *Emily Arlott 5(11) was ‘run-out’ taking a ‘risky single’ by AD-R’s direct-hit from ‘mid-off,’ bowled by Kate Cross. *2 balls later, Sophie Devine 46(36) ‘reverse-cut’ to ‘mid-off,’ and was caught by Phoebe Litchfield; also from AD-R. *After hitting her 4th ball for ‘six,’ Issy Wong 9(7) was caught at ‘long-on,’ by AD-R ‘running to her left;’ from Linsey Smith (1/10.) *Facing the penultimate ball, Abbey Freeborn 14(11) was ‘run-out’ ‘by a wide-margin’ at the striker’s-end, by Georgia Wareham’s accurate throw to keeper Bess Heath from AD-R’s bowling. Charis Pavely & Hannah Baker were ‘not out.’ *Phoenix’s best batter was Sophie Devine 46(36) *Superchargers’ best bowler was Alice Davidson-Richards 3/20.

NSC-W *Skipper Hollie Armitage, *[Amy Jones keeping wicket for Phoenix] *International players Phoebe Litchfield and Georgia Wareham (Australia) & Jemimah Rodrigues (India) replacing Alyssa Healy (Australia.) *Missing a ‘reverse-sweep,’ Marie Kelly 24(20) was bowled by leg-spinner Katie Levick (1/18.) clocked at between 47-51 mph. *After 25 balls Power-play, Superchargers were level-pegging on 39/1 (vs36/1.) *Jemimah Rodrigues 16(10) went ‘leg-before’ to Issy Wong (1/9.) *Approaching mid-way, Phoebe Litchfield was said to be ‘a special batting talent,’ with ‘timing and placement; striking fellow Australian Tess Flintoff for 4 successive ‘fours.’ *By mid-way, Superchargers were at least 20 runs ahead: ’running-away-with-it’ on 76/2 (vs 55/3); needing just 35 runs to win. *Strategic-time-out’ was taken (for drinks) after 60 balls, with Superchargers on 91/2. *Next set-of-five after play resumed, Hollie Armitage 13(14) was caught at ‘cow corner’ by Erin Burns, from debutante bowler Hannah Baker 1/20. *Phoebe Litchfield closed 42*not out(29.) *Alice Davidson-Richards 11*not out (5) demonstrated ‘such confidence’ when lofting an ‘off-drive,’ to score the match-winning ‘six.’ Best Superchargers’ batter was Phoebe Litchfield 42*not out(29). *Best Phoenix bowler Issy Wong 1/9.

Match summary: Superchargers ‘professional performance,’ was ‘polished all-round.’ All Superchargers’ batters reached double-figures. Debutante batter Phoebe Litchfield was lauded as a ‘very special talent.’ Phoenix had earlier ‘made a good start’ as Sophie Devine hit top-score, but ‘lost momentum’ as Phoenix’s strike-rate ‘fell back,’ with 20 balls remaining. Appreciating that ‘spin’ bowling was ‘the order-of-the-day,’ (on a ‘slow’ wicket) commentators gave opinion firstly that Phoenix ended 20 runs short of a ‘challenging’ total. Secondly, (when Superchargers were batting) Phoenix’s ‘strike’ bowlers needed to take wickets when ‘defending a low score.’ Alex Tudor called somewhat optimistically for “2 ‘hat-tricks’.”Receiving POTM ‘Meerkat Match Hero’ cap and medal, Alice Davidson-Richards explained that her success came from bowling her ‘best’ ball ‘every time.’ AD-R added that Superchargers’ batters ‘did all the work.’ Separately, continuing Superchargers’ ‘good run:’ (said to be) ‘unbeaten at Headlingley,’ since last season. Highest ‘net-run-rate’ send them top-of-table with just one round played-to-date.

Match result: Northern Superchargers Women 112/3 beat Birmingham Phoenix Women 111/8 by seven wickets and with 22 balls remaining

*Phoenix’s batting:110/8 (@1.1 runs per ball) from 100 balls; Sophie Devine 46(36), Amy Jones 13(13), Abbey Freeborn 14(11), Eve Jones 10(8); *Superchargers bowling: Alice Davidson-Richards 3/20, Linsey Smith 1/10, Georgia Wareham 1/24, Kate Cross 1/26; Fow 1-29, 2-44, 3-56, 4-65, 5-81, 6-83, 7-95, 8-110.

*Superchargers’ batting: 112/3 (@1.4 runs per ball from 78 balls; target 111 from 100 balls) Phoebe Litchfield 42*not out(29), Marie Kelly 24(20), Jemimah Rodrigues 16(10), Hollie Armitage 13(14), Alice Davidson-Richards 11*not out(5); *Phoenix bowling: Issy Wong 1/9, Katie Levick 1/18, Hannah Baker 1/20; Fow 1-23, 2-58, 3-95.

*Scorecard courtesy of BBC Sport @URL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000720

*Match highlights courtesy of Sky Sports @URL https://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/cricket/12933169/four-consecutive-fours-phoebe-litchfield-shows-class-to-put-northern-superchargers-in-control

Commentators changed their tune as the match unfolded, conceding that Phoenix ’needed to do more work’ to qualify for the finals. Invincibles’ convincing win leapfrogs them into second place on equal points with Phoenix. Awarding POTM ‘match hero’ Alice Capsey, Alex Tudor complemented her ‘all-round’ performance: scoring 20 runs from 18 balls and bowling a 3-fer. Earlier, between innings, Capsey (3/15) said she’d bowled ‘full and straight.’ After the match Alice Capsey told Tudor that when batting, she’d hit the ball ‘as hard as she possibly could.’ Match was broadcast via SKY Sports YouTube channel – please see below – with Alex Tudor (Wales), Ravi Shastri (India) plus guests Tammy Beaumont and Joss Buttler (featuring world No.1 Sophie Ecclestone bowling to  Danni Wyatt.) Live also via BBC red-button, BBC i-player & 5Live-SportsXtra (sound): Henry Moeran, Melissa Story, Carlos Brathwaite (WIndies) and Alex Hartley. Social media including ESPN-cric-info with Deivarayan Muthu & Peter Della Penna. Weather at Kia Oval was mainly overcast with occasional sunny spells, a light breeze and momentary drizzle 17-22C.

Phoenix innings

Skipper Sophie Devine 7 (4) top-edged from a slog-sweep and was caught-and-bowled by Sophia Smale’s 4th ball: Smale ‘wheeling-round’ for a ‘well-judged’ return catch from the mid-on region.’ During the power play Shabnim Ismail 0/6 (South Africa) bowled two sets-of-five with best economy 0/6 and seven dot-balls. *After 25 balls power play, Phoenix were 23/1. Amy Jones 18(19) who ‘never looked that comfortable,’ sliced a ‘sitter’ to ‘backward-point,’ caught by Kira Chathli, from Alice Capsey. *At mid-way, Phoenix were 46/2 and strategic-time-out was called.*Commentators remarked on the fast outfield. *During the second half, Phoenix lost five wickets quite close together. *Commentators felt that losing Australian Ellyse Perry’s wicket was crucial as previously she’d scored enough runs to take Phoenix ’to a respectable score.’  *Perry 10(13) came down the wicket leg-side and was stumped by Lauren Winfield-Hill, from Mady Villiers. *Two balls later, top scorer Eve Jones 29 (29) was clean-bowled by Alice Capsey. *Australian Sophie Molineux 6(4) missed a sweep and was also clean-bowled by Alice Capsey. Shabnim Ismail returned, delivering four more ‘dot’ balls from a set-of-five. *Next ball, Georgia Elwiss 6(8) skied a top-edge from Ryana Macdonald-Gay (1/16), caught by Sophia Smale – arriving from short-third and diving to her left. *After launching Eva Gray for ’six’, Issy Wong 9(6) was caught at cow-corner by Mady Villiers. *Thereafter, Emily Arlott and Phoebe Franklin scampered ‘ones’ and ‘twos,’ Arlott finishing with ‘four’ via deep mid-wicket. *Between innings, Henry Moeran (BBC) said Phoenix ‘lacked consistency.’ Alice Capsey (3/15) told Alex Tudor (SKY) that she’d bowled ‘full and straight.’

Invincibles innings

Dane van Niekerk (South Africa) returned as skipper from ankle injury, exchanged for Marizanne Kapp (South Africa.) *Suzie Bates (NZ) had told ESPN reporters that she felt ‘very foreign’ when Dane van Niekerk selected her as an ‘overseas player.’ Lauren Winfield-Hill 41*(38) anchored the innings and ‘carried her bat.’ *Fellow opener Suzie Bates 17(11) skied a thick-outside-edge and was caught at ‘short-third’ by Kirstie Gordon from Phoebe Franklin. *After 25 balls power play, Invincibles were 41/1 (vs 23/1.) *On 45/1 Kirstie Gordon dropped a caught-and-bowled chance, but took a second catch from short-third when Alice Capsey 20(18) mistimed from Emily Arlott. *At mid-way, Invincibles were 63/2 (vs 46/2.) *Drama struck when Dane van Niekerk dropped her bat and Amy Jones theatrically fumbled a ‘run-out’ from Georgia Elwiss. *By that time Alex Hartley was certain the match was ‘done and dusted.’ Strategic-time-out was called on 84/2, needing 23 to win. *First ‘fifty’ came from 40 balls, second ‘fifty’ (100/2) after 83 balls .*Henry Moeran pointed out that last year’s clash was almost a carbon-copy. *That saw Phoenix post a below-par score (94 all out) chasing Invincibles’ 115. Alex Hartley told viewers/listeners that Invincibles needed to settle for a quick win to improve their net-run-rate. *Hartley added that NRR was vital to avoid (either side) ‘missing-out’ (to qualify) for the finals.

Summary

Phoenix faced their first tournament defeat, posting a ‘below-par score,’ the match said to be a carbon-copy of last year’s ‘Eliminator’ (when All Out for 94, playing the same team.) Both teams have won three and lost one (6 points.) Commentator Carlos Brathwaite said it was ‘not a good day’ for Phoenix fans; and ‘work needed to be done’ (to improve net-run-rate) before Phoenix could think about qualifying for the finals. For Invincibles, all agreed that POTM Alice Capsey was the ‘stand-out performer.’ When bowling, Capsey took a 3-fer, including both ‘Joneses,’ as top-scorers. When batting, Capsey’s strike rate was better than one-run-per-ball. Invincibles move into second-place, overtaking Phoenix (down from 2nd to 3rd) on superior net-run-rate 0.453 (vs 0.239)

Result: Oval Invincibles Women 107/2 beat Birmingham Phoenix Women 106/7 by 8 wickets (with 13 balls remaining)

Birmingham Phoenix batting: 106/7 (100 balls, 1.06 runs-per-ball): Eve Jones 29(29), Amy Jones 18(20), Emily Arlott 15*(11), Ellyse Perry 10(13); Oval Invincibles bowling: Alice Capsey 3/15, Mady Villiers 1/15, Ryana Macdonald-Gay 1/16, Sophia Smale 1/18, Eva Gray 1/29 (best economy Shabnim Ismail 12 dot-balls); Fow 1-12, 2-37, 3-64, 4-65, 5-71, 6-77, 7–92; Invincibles batting: 107/2: (87/100 balls, 1.22 runs-per-ball) Lauren Winfield-Hill 41*(38), Dane vanNiekerk 21*(21), Alice Capsey 20(18), Suzie Bates 17(11); Phoenix bowling: Phoebe Franklin 1/20, Emily Arlott 1/8; Also best economy with 12 dot-balls); Fow 1-25, 2-63.

Scorecard & Statistics at URL: https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/the-hundred-women-s-competition-2022-1299144/oval-invincibles-women-vs-birmingham-phoenix-women-15th-match-1299159/full-scorecard

Match highlights free-to-air from SKY Sports YouTube [11m39] at URL: https://www.skysports.com/watch/video/12680056/oval-invincibles-v-birmingham-phoenix-womens-highlights

Match video free-to-air from SKY Sports YouTube [14m18/02h55m10s] at URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gLDBNOw_nok