*Following a delayed toss, ‘Fire’ scored 104/2 (from 75 balls); at which point ‘Strategic-time-out’ was called, covers were drawn across the pitch and an extended interval was taken. No further play on account of lightning risk to player’s safety. Separately, ’Superchargers’ did not get the opportunity to bat.

*Previous group stage ‘dress rehearsal’ went to Superchargers, only a few days ago; albeit with ‘Superchargers’ batting first. That turned out to be former England spinner Alex Hartley’s final professional match, in which she took to the field. *Tammy Beaumont finished her tournament with 290 runs; ahead of Phoebe Litchfield 266 (Superchargers) and Maia Boucher 254 (Brave): both of whom will play in the Final.

*’Fire’s’ batting: 104/2 (from 75/95 balls); Sophia Dunkley 38(28), Tammy Beaumont 37*not out (30) Laura Harris 14*not out(5) Hayley Matthews 10(12), *’Superchargers’’ bowling: Lucy Higham 1/16, Grace Ballinger 1/24; Fow 1-59, 2-81.

*Scorecard courtesy of BBC Sport @URL https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000749

*Ranked in 2nd place with ‘higher group-stage finish,’ ’Superchargers’ advance to the final to play ‘Brave.’

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

Tags: cricket, The Hundred.

In a tournament that lasts no more than a month, it’s the fine print of the regulations that decides the issue.

Welsh Fire are eliminated because they finished one point behind Superchargers. Why the one point? Because they had two rained-off matches to NS’s one.

Who had the faster scoring-rate? Welsh Fire: +0.602 to +0.357. But points count above RR.

Why could the game not go on longer?

1. Because of regulations regarding lightning. 30 minutes must elapse after the last lightning strike or thunder boom before the umpires may take the field again, unless they are satisfied the danger is over. Easy! Just a few lives at risk, that’s all.

2. Because a men’s eliminator was to begin at 6.00, the women’s game had to finish by 5.11 pm.

The men’s game was completed. 397 runs were scored.

You can supply your own conclusions. Here are one or two of mine:

There we see the disadvantage of the double-header. Till that moment of abandonment, most people would have agreed that the pattern of two games on one day on one ground had been a raging success. But this wasn’t the first time a women’s game had been downgraded to enable a men’s game to take place.

Where’s the equality of opportunity there?

One of the abiding weaknesses of incomplete limited-overs matches (I need here to introduce an unfamiliar term, ‘limited-sets matches’ to satisfy the regulation-makers of The Hundred) is: there is no clear way of assessing who deserves to win.

Was WF’s score of 104-2 off 75 balls a likely winning total? How long is a piece of string? Had the game restarted, the umpires would then have calculated the number of balls NS would receive, and that would depend upon the expertise of the three mathematicians who defined the DLS method.

So a thoroughly unsatisfactory ending to what promised to be a thrilling contest. Fire came properly alive only when Laura Harris arrived on stage. Her big hitting helped Tammy Beaumont to find her touch again, and she followed suit by whacking a Kate Cross delivery over the mid-wicket fence.

But we were deprived of seeing a string of other players, including some big-name imports, from strutting their stuff.

Note: this piece was written before the Sunday game started. The sun is shining.

‘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/

Low-scoring thriller, in which ‘Invincibles’ as twice-defending champions seemed headed for a new record lowest-score in front of their sizeable home crowd. Commentators added that England’s Tammy Beaumont had captained ‘Fire’ to victory very well. Separately, ‘Fire’ also beat last year’s finalists only a few days ago; albeit with much higher scores. As POTM Meerkat Match Hero, fast-bowler Shabnim Ismail (Fire) took three wickets, conceding just 12 runs; and was reckoned to be the competition’s fastest female bowler. Introduced for Sky Sports TV by pundits Lydia Greenway, Dominic Cork, Nasser Hussain, (former England players) & Ravi Shastri (former India coach & skipper.) Match highlights courtesy of Sky Sports (please see below.) Weather at The Kia Oval was cloudy with patches of blue sky, but cooler-than-average for August.

OI-W Innings skipper Dane van Niekerk [Sarah Bryce keeping wicket for Fire] *Internationals Marizanne Kapp & Dane van Niekerk (Rep. South Africa) & Suzie Bates (former NZ skipper) with England’s Alice Capsey, & from England ‘A’: Paige Scholfield, Mady Villiers & Eva Gray *Suzie Bates 5(10) was bowled by Shabnim Ismail *Alice Capsey 3(5) was caught by Alex Griffiths ‘diving to her left,’ from Georgia Elwiss *Dane van Niekerk 2 runs( from 6 balls) was bowled by Alex Griffiths, who was said to bowl ‘off the wrong foot.’ *Marizanne Kapp 3(6) was bowled by Georgia Elwiss: by a ball that ’nipped-off the seam’ *Paige Scholfield 5(8) was caught ‘comfortably’ by Sophia Dunkley, from Alex Griffiths (2/15) *Mady Villiers 0(3) was bowled by Shabnim Ismail for a third-ball duck. *Ryana McDonald-Gay 0(1) went ‘leg before,’ to Shabnim Ismail for a golden duck (3/12) *Eva Gray 1(4) who’d survived an earlier ‘hat-trick’ ball, went ‘leg before,’ upon review; looking to ‘reverse sweep’ Claire Nicholas (1/17) *Sophia Smale 7(9) hesitated and was ‘run out’ by Freya Davies receiving at the non-striker’s end, from Alex Griffifths *Best ‘Invincibles’ batter was Lauren Winfield-Hill 42(35) who made top-score, until bowled by Freya Davies; and was the only batter to reach double-figures. *Lizzy Scott was 7*not out(11) *Best ‘Fire’ bowler was Shabnim Ismail 3/12 who took two ‘ducks.’

WF-W Innings skipper Tammy Beaumont [Lauren Winfield-Hill keeping wicket for Invincibles] *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. *Fire lost both openers for ducks. *Tammy Beaumont 0(1) was caught by opposing skipper Dane van Niekerk, for a ‘golden duck’ from Marizanne Kapp. *Hayley Matthews 0(4) was caught by Alice Capsey ‘who made no mistake,’ from Marizanne Kapp. *After 25 balls ‘Power-play, ‘Fire’ were 30/2. *Only two batters made double-figures. *Sophia Dunkley 28(21) who was earlier ‘put-down’ at ‘short-third,’ was caught at ‘long-on’ by Suzie Bates, from Paige Scholfield *Laura Harris 0(1) was caught by Dane van Niekerk ‘going to her right’ for – ‘golden duck’ from Paige Scholfield; a Carbon-copy of her skipper’s dismissal. *By mid-way (50 balls) ‘Fire’ were 48/4. *Georgia Elwiss 33(29) who was earlier ‘put-down’ at ‘short-third,’ went ‘leg-before’ to Marizanne Kapp. *Emily Windsor 0(1) went for a third ‘golden duck,’ from Marizanne Kapp. *Freya Davies  5(6) was ‘brilliantly’ caught ‘in the covers’ low-down, by Paige Scholfield, from Sophia Smale *With five runs needed to win, batters declined stoppage for ‘strategic-time-out.’ *Sarah Bryce, who’d survived Paige Scholfield’s earlier ‘hat-trick’ ball, was 9*not out (10.) *Alex Griffiths 4*not out(7.) *Best ‘Fire’ batter was Georgia Elwiss 33(29.) *Best ‘Invincibles’ bowler was Marizanne Kapp 4/18.

Match Summary Overall, the match was closely contested, thrilling, including three potential ‘hat-tricks.’ Earlier, commentators were concerned that the (twice) defending champions were losing wickets ‘at regular intervals,’ their batters forming ‘no partnerships,’ and were headed for a new record lowest-score (presently 73.) A face-saving partnership between Lauren Winfield-Hill and Lizzie Scott added 25 runs that set a new 10th-wicket record stand for the home side who chalked-up their lowest-ever competition score. Small consolation for ‘Invincibles,’ when facing their first defeat. A ‘disciplined’ performance by Fire’s bowlers created two ‘hat-trick’ opportunities. Having disclosed that she’d gone for ‘straighter lines’ fast-bowler Shabnim Ismail took 3 ‘superb’ wickets and was awarded her POTM Meerkat Match Hero cap and medal by Nasser Hussain. Shabnim Ismail was ‘happy, chuffed and excited’ to win. As mentioned above, commentators added that Tammy Beaumont had captained ‘Fire’ “very well.” Welsh Fire remain top-of-table after 3 rounds: with 2 wins and one ’no result.’

Match result: Welsh Fire Women 81/7 beat Oval Invincibles Women 80/10 by 3 wickets with 20 balls remaining

*Invincibles’ batting 80/10: (98/100 balls @0.9 runs-per-ball, target 82 from 100 balls) Lauren Winfield-Hill 42(35); *Fire’s bowling: Shabnim Ismail 3/12, Georgia Elwiss 2/4, Alex Griffiths 2/15, Freya Davies 1/15, Claire Nicholas 1/17; Fow 1-12, 2-23, 3-28, 4-31, 5-39, 6-39, 7-39, 8-40, 9-55, 10-80.

*Fire’s batting: 81/7 (80/100 balls @1 run-per-ball); Sophia Dunkley 28(21), Georgia Elwiss 33(29); *Invincibles’ bowling: Marizanne Kapp 4/18, Paige Scholfield 2/19, Sophia Smale 1/5; Fow 1-0, 2-5, 3-45, 4-45, 5-69, 6-69, 7-76.

*Scorecard courtesy of BBC Sport @URL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000725

*Match highlights (06m25s) courtesy of Sky Sports @URL https://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/cricket/12935048/highlights-welsh-fire-limit-oval-invincibles-to-80-runs-in-victory-over-the-champions

‘Captained by Tammy Beaumont, Welsh Fire begin their 2023 Women’s Hundred campaign at home to Sophie Ecclestone’s Manchester Originals’ –  Sky Sports.

‘Match abandoned without a ball bowled’ courtesy of BBC Sport @URL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/scorecard/ECKE1000718

The twenty-first women’s match of ‘The Hundred’ tournament was the last chance for Rockets to secure third place in the ‘Play-offs’ between the tournament’s top-three teams. POTM ‘match hero’ Elyse Villani stood-in as Rockets’ skipper (for Nat Sciver). Australian Villani took two catches and made top-score 55*not out, with her bat. Asked about strategy, she revealed to TV viewers she’d focused on getting into a winning position. Only then did Villani think about net-run-rate targets needed to qualify for the Play-offs. Separately, it didn’t go unnoticed that Scotland’s Bryce sisters were playing against each other, on either side. Match was broadcast via SKY Sports YouTube channel – please see below – with Kass Naidoo, Simon Doull (NZ), Daren Sammy (WIndies), Dominic Cork, Ebony Rainford-Brent (seen with ice cream), and guest Kate Cross. Also ESPN-cric-info (Hemant Brar and Sampath Bandarupalli); BBC ’No Balls’ co-hosted by Alex Hartley and other social media. Record crowd 10,286 watching women’s cricket at Trent Bridge. Weather was overcast.

Fire’s innings

Skipper Beaumont said that her side was unchanged (but without Hayley Matthews.) *When Tammy Beaumont opened her account with four ‘fours’ from Scotland’s Kathryn Bryce, Fire looked set to ’spoil the party.’ *Change of bowler saw Beaumont 23(26) ballooning a catch taken by Katherine Bryce at deep mid-wicket, from Bryony Smith. *Disaster struck during the power play when Natalie Sciver dismissed two of Fire’s three Australians from the same set-of-five balls. *Rachael Haynes 6(10) was clean-bowled off-stump; and Annabel Sutherland 1(2) went plumb ‘leg before.’ *After 25 balls power play, Fire were 31/3. *Skipper Villani’s first catch arose when Fran Wilson’s mis-timed cover drive 4(10) ballooned a catch at ‘mid-off’ from Bryony Smith’s second set-of-five. *At mid-way, Fire were 51/4. Australian Nic Carey built a fifth-wicket partnership with Sarah Bryce, adding 33 runs. ‘Strategic-time-out’ came after 70 balls: Fire 70/4. Sarah Bryce 23(26) was ‘run-out’ arriving with a flat-out dive, just short of the non-striker’s end. *Sarah Bryce was commended for ’sticking around’ and ‘fought hard.’ *Next set-of-five was a wicket-maiden that saw Katie George 0(5) ‘brilliantly’ caught in the deep by Bryony Smith from Alana King’s slower ball. *Finally, two more wickets fell during Katherine Brunt’s death over. *Villani took her second catch at ‘mid-off’ to dismiss Fire’s third Australian Nic Carey. *Also, Lauren Filer 14(11) was clean-bowled from Brunt’s last ball, Filer missing her customary big shot to finish. *Commentators said that Rockets’ fielding was ‘outstanding’ as they saved runs to keep their hopes of qualifying alive.

Rockets’ innings

Skipper Elyse Villani. *Facing Alex Hartley’s first ten balls, Villani and Bryony Smith made a cautious start. *After 25 balls power play, Fire were ahead on runs from three more balls that crossed the ropes, but behind on wickets. *Rockets were 25/0 (vs 31/3.) Either side of the power play, Tammy Beaumont spilt two catches, giving lives to Smith before the power play, and Sciver afterwards. *Immediately after the power play, Bryony Smith’s 8(15) ‘struggling knock’ ended when caught by Annabel Sutherland from Lauren Filer’s (1/13) third ball. *Change of bowling brought back Alex Hartley (1/27), who took Natalie Sciver’s 5(7) ‘huge’ wicket. Sciver was caught by Claire Nicholas at ‘short-third.’ *At mid-way, Rockets were 46/2 (vs 51/4.) *Skipper Villani had a lucky escape on 66/2, when Fran Wilson got both hands to the ball, diving from ‘deep-square,’ from Lauren Filer. *As mentioned above, decision time came during the ‘Strategic-time-out.’ Match hero Elyse Villani 55*(40) went on to score a skipper’s fifty and carried-her-bat. South Africa’s Mignon duPreez 32*(30) saw Rockets home ‘in style,’ scoring two ‘fours’ from Annabel Sutherland, to close.

Summary

Rockets have won three group-stage matches from their six (awarded 6 points.) During the power play Fire posted a higher score than rockets, initially raising expectations that they could cause another upset. Rockets were ahead at mid-way, with two wickets advantage. Commentators said that Rockets’ fielding was ‘outstanding’ whereas Fire dropped at least four catches that could have changed the course of the game. Instead, Fire had ’not enough runs on the board,’ and Rockets had little trouble chasing down the target by a comfortable margin. Daren Sammy added that Rockets had done enough to keep themselves ‘in the running’ to finish in third place. Commentator Simon Doull added that Rockets had ‘restricted Welsh Fire in style.’  A favourable qualification scenario is for Rockets to join the top two teams already through to the next stage of the tournament (Invincibles and Brave.) Third place will be decided by ‘net run rate,’ between teams placed third on equal points, once all teams have played their six matches at the group stage of the tournament.

Result: Trent Rockets Women 102/2 beat  Women Welsh Fire Women 100/8; by 8 wickets with 18 balls remaining

Fire batting: 100/8 (100 balls @1.00 run-per-over); Nic Carey 27(29), Sarah Bryce 23(26) Tammy Beaumont 16(6) Lauren Filer 14(11); Rockets bowling: Bryony Smith 2/14, Katherine Brunt 2/14, Natalie Sciver 2/22, Alana King 1/10; Fow 1-16, 2-25, 3-31, 4-40, 5-73, 6-74, 7-99, 8-100; Rockets batting: 102/2 (82/100 balls @1.24 runs-per-over; target 101 from 100); Elyse Villani 55*(40), Mignon duPreez 32*(20); Fire bowling: Lauren Filer 1/13, Alex Hartley 1/27; Fow 1-25, 2-28.

Scorecard & Statistics at URL: https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/the-hundred-women-s-competition-2022-1299144/trent-rockets-women-vs-welsh-fire-women-21st-match-1299165/full-scorecard

Match highlights free-to-air from SKY Sports YouTube [07m35] at URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W053_8FAwWQ

Match video free-to-air from SKY Sports YouTube [32m59/03h38m50] at URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V56x2l7jBxc

TV pundits expressed divided opinion as the eighteenth women’s match of ‘The Hundred’ tournament unfolded. Both teams lost six wickets and peppered each other with exactly the same number of ‘dot’ balls. Host team benefited from two more batters making double-figures, chalking-up a faster net-run-rate. Darren Gough was sure that Superchargers expected an easy win, whereas Robert Croft was sure that Fire would sing their Welsh side home. POTM match hero Australia’s Nic Carey bagged a ‘3-fer’ (3/18); bowling decisive balls that deprived Superchargers’ two highest scorers of their ‘fifties.’ From that point, commentators agreed that ‘Carey had the match ‘under her control.’ Two balls later, Nic Carey took a third wicket. Receiving her award, Nic Carey explained to TV viewers that she’d ‘rolled her fingers’ over the ball (to take wickets); and the girls were ‘pumped-up’ with the win. Skipper Tammy Beaumont said she was ’totally relieved,’ telling her fans she’d ‘won (the match) for them.’ Match was broadcast via SKY Sports YouTube channel – please see below – with Zainab Abbas, with Natalie Germanos (South Africa), Robert Croft and Darren Gough. Also ESPN-cric-info (Peter Della Penna & Ashish Pant); BBC ’No Balls’ (co-hosted by Alex Hartley) and other social media. Weather at Sophia Gardens was overcast turning brighter with sunny spells with a few drops of rain. 17-22C

Fire Innings

*Skipper Beaumont announced some changes: Australian Nic Carey exchanged for Hayley Matthews (left for WIndies) and Australia’s Rachael Haynes was back (recovered from illness.) *Spinner Hannah Baker for Fi Morris. *Sarah Bryce (2) survived an early ‘run-out’ from World-cup veteran Jenny Gunn’s whose direct-hit, off Linsey Smith; was judged ’not out.’ *After 25 balls power play, Fire were 32/0. *Skipper Beaumont 10(15) was clean-bowled middle-stump by Jenny Gunn, with bales sent flying. *Rachael Haynes came down-the-wicket striking top-edge sent aerial to Hollie Armitage at extra cover,’ from Lucy Higham (1/3.) *By midway, Fire reached 56/2. *After 60 balls, Sarah Bryce 36(30) miscued to Jenny Gunn, taken inside the circle at ‘mid-off;’ from Katie Levick (1/23.) *Australian Annabel Sutherland hit two ‘fours’ to see-off Alice Davidson-Richards. *Jenny Gunn returned for her second set-of-five, nonchalantly dismissing Fran Wilson, caught-and-bowled 5(5.) *Annabel Sutherland partnered by Nic Carey 19(13) added 23 runs for Fire’s 5th wicket, Carey chalking-up ‘100’ on the scoreboard with a ’two.’ *Next ball, Hollie Armitage bowled Carey a ‘full-toss,’ caught at ‘deep-midwicket’ by Bess Heath – said by Robert Croft to be a ‘horrible’ dismissal. *With ten balls remaining, Australian Heather Graham acted quickly when receiving Bess Heath’s incoming throw from ‘deep midwicket;’ causing Katie George 0(1) to ’run herself out’ at the non-striker’s end. *Jenny Gunn’s death-over went for a costly 16 runs, as Annabel Sutherland 31*(52) and Lauren Filer 9*(3) each launched defiant ’sixes’ – the only two ’sixes’ that Fire’s batters could muster, as they hit their target score of 120.

Superchargers’ Innings 

Skipper Hollie Armitage. Rachel Slater for injured Beth Langston. Australian Alyssa Healy 4(3) went third ball, caught by Tammy Beaumont at ‘midwicket’ from Claire Nicholas. *Bess Heath played a mirror-image shot, caught at ‘mid-off’ by Rachael Haynes, also from Claire Nicholas (2/17). *After 25 balls power play, Superchargers were two wickets down: 31/2 (vs 32/0); needing 93 runs from 75 balls. *Main partnership between Laura Wolvaardt 41(38) and skipper Armitage 40(38) put on 90 runs for the third wicket. *At midway, Superchargers were 65/2 (vs 56/2); needing 59 from 50 balls. Commentators were critical of both sides. *Questions were asked of Fire’s defensive fielding settings, if they were expecting batting aggression straight away? *When Superchargers’ required-run-rate started to fall behind, batters were criticized for ’not quite getting to the pitch of the ball.’ *Darren Gough anticipated an early Superchargers win, until the match took one final twist. *Strategic-time-out was called on 73/2 after 60 balls, with 51 needed from 40 balls remaining. *Skipper Beaumont later revealed on TV that her ‘time-out’ pep-talk motivated Fire players to try for another wicket and ‘see it through.’ *Breakthrough came when Annabel Sutherland took a comfortable catch to dismiss Laura Wolvaardt, from Carey; with the score at 102/3. *Light drizzle started to fall. *Heather Graham 2(5) was caught by fellow Australian Rachael Haynes, from Annabel Sutherland (1/21). *Robert Croft detected ‘Welsh singing in the crowd’ as Superchargers batting collapse continued and match advantage evaporated during the last ten balls. *Nic Carey (3/18) had Hollie Armitage caught by Tammy Beaumont; and Alice Davidson-Richards 2(4) played-on to her middle stump. *Just 3 runs came from Annabel Sutherland’s last set-of-five balls (95-100) when Superchargers fell short.

Summary

Commentators foresaw that Sophia Gardens was ‘not an easy wicket.’ Fire was first team to put runs on the board with four batters chalking-up double-figure scores. POTM match hero Nic Carey scored 19(13) added 23 runs for Fire’s 5th wicket with her bat. Carey also took a ‘3-fer,’ bagging both Superchargers’ two top batters who’d made double-figures. Superchargers had little appetite to chase down 21 runs needed from the final 16 balls *Instead they suffered an ‘almighty batting collapse,’ when losing 3 wickets for 4 runs during the closing stage. Commentators said that Superchargers chances of progressing beyond the group stage are now ‘seriously dented’ from a ‘crippling’ defeat. Both teams ‘need a miracle’ to qualify for the play-offs. Fire was more positive about the outcome, having chalked-up their first ever win; gained their first two points in the tournament’s short two-year history; and broken their two-year ‘nil points’ duck. Skipper Tammy Beaumont expressed emotions of ‘joy and relief’ having achieved a home win under her captaincy.

Result: Welsh Fire Women 123/6 beat Northern Superchargers Women 112/6 by 11 runs

Fire batting: 123/6 (100 balls @1.23 runs-per-over); Sarah Bryce 36(30) Annabel Sutherland 31*(22),Nic Carey 19(13), Tammy Beaumont 10(15); Superchargers bowling: Jenny Gunn 2/20, Lucy Higham 1/3, Hollie Armitage 1/8, Katie Levick 1/23; Fow 1-41, 2-56, 3-62, 4-78, 5-101, 6-106; Superchargers batting: 112/6 (100 balls @1.12 runs-per-over; target 124 from 100); Laura Wolvaardt 41(38), Hollie Armitage 40(38); Fire bowling: Nic Carey 3/18, Claire Nicholas 2/17, Annabel Sutherland 1/21; Fow 1-4, 2-12, 3-102, 4-104, 5-106, 6-108.

Scorecard & Statistics at URL: https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/the-hundred-women-s-competition-2022-1299144/welsh-fire-women-vs-northern-superchargers-women-18th-match-1299162/full-scorecard

Match highlights free-to-air from SKY Sports YouTube [07m54] at URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3HYGhvAF_4

Match video free-to-air from SKY Sports YouTube [30m40/03h29m53s] at URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_EEWvIFCnDA

The sixteenth women’s match of ‘The Hundred’ was billed by commentators as a dead rubber: ’bottom-of-table-clash’ with slim chance of either team making the play-offs. Spirit bowlers struck first when Freya Davies pictured clean-bowled England’s Tammy Beaumont and Australia’s Annabel Sutherland with consecutive balls, raising crowd expectation for a hat-trick. A little later, Davies did indeed take a third wicket ‘3-fer’ (3/25): when Katie George was caught by Australian Megan Schutt. POTM match-hero was awarded to Australia’s Beth Mooney who chalked-up half the runs for a home-team win (61*39 with strike-rate 156.4). Mooney also made two keeper’s stumpings.  Separately, Beth Mooney went top of the batting-leader-board, bagging 201 runs-to-date. Match was broadcast via SKY Sports YouTube channel – please see below – with commentators Isa Guha, Lisa Sthalekar (Australia), Lydia Greenway, Carlos Brathwaite (WIndies), Nasser Hussain and Dominic Cork; with guests South Africa’s Dane van Niekerk (first-timer) and Lauren Winfield-Hill (Invincibles.) Also with participation via player’s microphones in the field, from Sophie Luff (Spirit) and Katie George (Fire). For BBC2 & BBC (Wales): Aatif Nawaz, with first timers Moeen Ali and Issy Wong. Social media including BBC Sound: ‘No Balls’ (co-hosted by Alex Hartley) and ESPN-cric-info. Weather: hot afternoon with blue sky and ‘a few’ clouds 18-22C

Fire Innings

Tammy Beaumont (skipper) said Maddy Green (NZ) replaced Hayley Matthews (WIndies). *Scotland’s Sarah Bryce was promoted to open the batting.  *From the field, Sophie Luff told commentators that Spirit were hoping for ‘a couple of wickets’ during the power play, but after 25 balls, Fire were 38 without loss. *Drama struck before mid-way when Freya Davies took two wickets: Tammy Beaumont 19(14), and Annabel Sutherland (0.) *Sutherland receiving ‘the perfect delivery,’ as judged by Issy Wong (commentating.) *Fire’s first 50 runs came from 37 balls. *Second pair of wickets fell either side of mid-way 62/3, within six balls of each other. *Sarah Bryce 33(25) lofted high over mid-off, and was caught by Megan Schutt from Amelia Kerr (NZ.) *Also, Maddy Green 10(13) (NZ) was clean-bowled by Danielle Gibson (1/14) at 64/4 after 55 balls. *Fran Wilson (7) was short-lived, caught by Charlie Dean from Megan Schutt. *As mentioned above, Katie George was caught by Megan Schutt at long-on (score 107/6); handing Freya Davies her ‘3-fer’(3/25.) Two wickets fell on the same score when Nic Carey (Aus) was stumped by Beth Mooney, coming down the wicket to Amelia Kerr’s slower ball; and Claire Nicholas was run-out for a golden duck by Charlie Dean’s throw from ‘extra-cover’ to keeper Beth Mooney(109/8). *Lauren Filer was stumped by Mooney from Megan Schutt (2/26); leaving Alex Hartley and Hannah Baker ’not out.’

Spirit Innings

Skipper Charlie Dean, with Heather Knight said to be ‘ruled-out.’ Promoted to open the batting with Beth Mooney, Danielle Gibson scored 24 of the 32 runs from the first 19 balls: that provided ‘proper entertainment,’ hitting ’six.’ Commentator Aatif Nawaz said that Gibson ’took the game by the scruff-of-the-neck’ until Gibson’s innings was interrupted by Annabel Sutherland’s ‘proper bouncer.’ When Maddy Green took the catch, commentators said it was a ’turning point’ in the game. Third Umpire gave ’no ball, for height’ said to be a ‘rare decision.’ Gibson was called back to the crease. Carlos Brathwaite commented on the pressure from Annabel Sutherland’s set-of-five ending the power play 25/0. Just after mid-way, Danielle Gibson 34(27) was ‘unlucky to find a fielder,’ caught by Sutherland, after hitting Lauren Filer’s short ball well. Commentators complemented England wannabe Danielle Gibson on her ‘amazing performance.’ Strategic-time-out was taken after 60 balls, on 82/1; Spirit needing 38 runs. On player’s microphone, Katie George expressed a little disappointment that earlier, Fire had ’not quite fired with the bat,’ despite playing ‘good cricket.’ With 20 balls remaining, Sophie Luff 12(13) mis-timed a vertical catch taken by Tammy Beaumont, from Claire Nicholas. The highlight of the closing stage was Beth Mooney’s ‘fifty’ from 9 ‘fours.’ Mooney also struck the winning ‘four’ to carry-her-bat on 61*not out (from 39 balls); bagging a total of 201 runs – the most runs scored so far in this years’ tournament.

Summary

An entertaining ‘dead rubber’ with Fire looking set to receive the tournament’s wooden spoon. Although Fire started well by  making a better power play score (38/0 vs 25/0); Spirit caught-up by 30 balls. England’s Freya Davies made the first breakthrough taking two early wickets within two balls (Tammy Beaumont and Annabel Sutherland). Another pair of wickets fell either side of mid-way (Sarah Bryce and Maddy Green.) Wickets were thrown away in the closing stage, to chalk-up a defendable score once 100 runs was reached. Fire finished on 119, on a ‘carpet’ pitch for 130. Drama struck during the host’s reply when Umpires ruled Danielle Gibson ‘out’ but summoned her back, because of an unusually high bouncer that was ruled ’no ball.’ POTM Beth Mooney made top score and carried her bat, scoring half the runs needed to win from just 39 deliveries. Commentators added that Mooney goes top of the batting-leader-board with 201 runs, overtaking South Africa’s Laura Wolvaardt 195. After the match Megan Schutt showed viewers her grazed arm from diving into the boundary rope to save ‘four.’

Result: London Spirit Women 122/2 beat Welsh Fire Women 119/9 by 8 wickets (with 14 balls remaining)

Fire batting: 119/9 (from 100 balls@1.19 runs-per-ball) Sarah Bryce 33(25), Tammy Beaumont 19(14), Nicola Carey 28(21), Maddy Green 10(13); Spirit bowling: Freya Davies 3/25, Amelia Kerr 2/14, Megan Schutt 2/26, Danielle Gibson 1/14; Fow 1-46, 2-46, 3-62, 4-64, 5-95, 6–107, 8-109, 9-114. Spirit batting: 122/2 (from 86/100 balls@1.41 runs-per-ball; target 120 from 100 balls) Beth Mooney 61*(39) Danielle Gibson 34(17), Sophie Luff 12(13); Fire bowling: Claire Nicholas 1/18, Lauren Filer 1/22; Fow 1-66, 2-100.

Scorecard & Statistics at URL: https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/the-hundred-women-s-competition-2022-1299144/london-spirit-women-vs-welsh-fire-women-16th-match-1299160/full-scorecard

Match highlights free-to-air from SKY Sports YouTube [7m01] at URL: https://www.skysports.com/the-hundred/video/36891/12680698/london-spirit-claim-first-the-hundred-victory

Match video free-to-air from SKY Sports YouTube [32m16/03h28m05s] at URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8LfC2aD5FKM

TV pundits correctly predicted the fourteenth women’s match outcome of ‘The Hundred,’ before a single ball was bowled. POTM match-hero was England’s Sophia Dunkley who made top-score 49. Dunkley was fortunate when dropped at ‘square-leg’ on 12, but unfortunate not to make her ‘fifty.’ Dunkley later told reporters that she tried to ‘anchor:’ batting through the innings. When weather turned to drizzle, Georgia Adams (pictured) hit an unbeaten 25*not out. Adams bagged two wickets with consecutive balls, with expectation for a hat-trick and took a catch when Brave were bowling. Match was broadcast via SKY Sports YouTube channel – please see below – with Natalie Germanos (South Africa), Simon Doull(NZ), Dominic Cork, Darren Gough and Nasser Hussain (with pre-recorded coffee corner guest Alex Hartley) and Katie George on player’s microphone in the field. Also ESPN-cric-info and other social media. Weather at Sophia Gardens was overcast turning to heavy drizzle ‘mizzle,’ breeze, but without any rain stoppage.

Brave Innings

Anya Shrubsole No changes. *Smriti Mandhana (India) 13 from 9 balls, swept 3 ‘fours’ before caught at ‘mid-off’ by Nicola Carey (Australia.) *After 25 balls power play, Brave were 40/1. Fire’s Lauren Filer put down two chances firstly dropping Danni Wyatt 14*(9) at ’square-leg’ from ball 29. Filer needed physio, after Alex Hartley’s ball flipped-up from her ‘reverse-cupped hands’ and struck her face. *Secondly, Sophia Dunkley 12*(15) was dropped when diving forward, from Nic Carey. *Another six balls later Wyatt 16(12) was stumped by Sarah Bryce (Scotland,) coming down the wicket to Hannah Baker. *At mid-way, Brave were 60/2. Thereafter, the match was played through drizzle with ball towelling, but without any stoppage for rain. *Tahlia McGrath 7(11) was short-lived ‘on a tricky pitch,’ her off-stump skittled by fellow Australian Nic Carey. *Maia Bouchier 2(4) ‘struggled’ until caught at mid-wicket by Tammy Beaumont. *Commentators said that Brave’s skipper ‘wouldn’t be too happy’ about the finish when three more wickets fell. *Freya Kemp was caught by Australia’s Annabel Sutherland from WIndies Hayley Matthews 1(3). *Matthews final match for Fire before returning to WIndies (to play in StKitts & Nevis.) Australia’s Amanda-Jade-Wellington 1(1) was run-out by Katie George’s throw to Matthews at the bowler’s end. *Finally Anya Shrubsole was stumped by Sarah Bryce, coming down the wicket to Hayley Matthews, to collect her golden duck.

Fire Innings

Skipper Beaumont announced two changes: Australian Nic Carey exchanged for Rachael Haynes (unwell); and spinner Hannah Baker for Fi Morris. *England bowling hopeful Lauren Bell struck straight away when  Tammy Beaumont 9(7) was caught at mid-wicket by Maia Bouchier. *After 25 balls power play, Fire were 25/1 (vs 40/1.) Georgia Adams caught Hayley Matthews 20(20) at slip, handing Amanda-Jade Wellington her eighth tournament wicket – highest tally so far. On 50/2, Fran Wilson 1(3) was short-lived, clean-bowled by Tahlia McGrath. *By mid-way, Fire were 51/3 (vs 60/2.) Amusingly, Simon Doull said that Nic Carey ‘played all around’ a slower Yorker, bowled by Lauren Bell for 2(4.) *Australian Annabel Sutherland was caught behind by keeper Carla Rudd from a thin edge, from Anya Shrubsole. *On 65/5, Nasser Hussain felt that Fire ‘weren’t going anywhere’ with 30 balls remaining. *Disaster struck when skipper Shrubsole and Adams and each bagged two wickets with consecutive balls, raising crowd expectation for hat-tricks. *Firstly from Anya Shrubsole, Katie George 14(7) went ‘leg before’ after scoring two boundaries. *Next ball, Lauren Filer was caught by Tahlia McGrath  for a golden duck. *Secondly, from Georgia Adams, Claire Nicholas was stumped by keeper Carla Rudd. *Next ball, Hannah Baker went ‘leg before’ for a golden duck. *Finally Sarah Bryce 28(21) was run-out by Danni Wyatt’s throw to Anya Shrubsole at the bowler’s end, leaving Alex Hartley ’not out.’

Summary

POTM match hero Sophia Dunkley hit 49 before adverse weather arrived, following early departures by Brave’s openers. Thereafter, play continued on a ‘tricky pitch’ with a light drizzle and gentle breeze without any stoppage for rain. Batting further down the order, Georgia Adams (25*not out) saw the innings through to what turned out to be a defendable score. Commentators were sympathetic to Lauren Filer who put down two catches – ‘a day she would want to forget.’ Although Hayley Matthews second-wicket partnership with Annabel Sutherland added 31 runs, Fire’s innings will be remembered for wickets taken, rather than runs scored. Anya Shrubsole and Georgia Adams who both took two wickets with consecutive balls. Also, Australia’s Amanda-Jade Wellington, who bagged her eighth wicket from four matches, stays top of the bowler’s leader board. Brave’s fourth win sends them top-of-table with maximum points and with two more matches remaining at the group stage. Fire’s challenge for this year’s tournament is over.

Result: Southern Brave Women 122/8 beat Welsh Fire Women 108/10 by 14 runs with one ball remaining

Brave batting: 122/8;  from 100 balls (1.22 runs-per-ball) Sophia Dunkley 49(43), Georgia Adams 25*(16), Danni Wyatt 16(12), Smriti Mandhana 13(9); Welsh Fire bowling: Hayley Matthews 2/26, Annabel Sutherland 1/8, Alex Hartley 1/12, Claire Nicholas 1/17, Nicola Carey 1/18, Hannah Baker 1/21; Fow 1-28, 2-50, 3-68, 4-71, 5-105, 6-121, 7-122, 8-122.

Fire batting: 108/10 (99/100 balls, 1.08 runs per-ball target 123 from 100 balls) Sarah Bryce 28(21), Annabel Sutherland 22(26), Hayley Matthews 20(20), Katie George 14(7); Brave bowling: Anya Shrubsole 3/20, Georgia Adams 2/12, Lauren Bell 2/17; Talhia McGrath 1/10, Amanda-Jade Wellington 1/21; Fow 1-13, 2-44, 3-50, 4-59, 5-67, 6-84, 7-84, 8-87, 9/87, 10/108.

Scorecard & Statistics at URL: https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/the-hundred-women-s-competition-2022-1299144/welsh-fire-women-vs-southern-brave-women-14th-match-1299158/full-scorecard

Match highlights free-to-air from SKY Sports YouTube [07m54] at URL: https://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/12679390/southern-brave-beat-welsh-fire-to-maintain-perfect-record

Match video free-to-air from SKY Sports YouTube [54m56/03h45m50s] at URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCB238zfcJM

Taking two ’back-to-back’ wickets on top of an earlier top-scoring ‘fifty’ earned Deandre Dottin ‘match hero’ in the eighth women’s match of ‘The Hundred.’ Match hero Deandre Dottin not only made top-score for the home side: 67* runs (from 37 balls); but also took two crucial wickets 2/21: from her 15 deliveries with the ball. Receiving POTM match hero medal, Dottin told Cork: ‘It was very important having that winning feeling again. It’s only going to take (Originals Women)  forward to have more wins.’ Match was broadcast via SKY Sports YouTube channel – please see below – with Charles Dagnall, Lisa Sthalekar (Australia), Simon Doull (NZ), Lydia Greenway and Dominic Cork. Also BBC 5LSX, ESPN-cric-info and other social media. Weather was changeable, cooler than it had been; but there were no stoppages for rain.

Originals’ Innings skippered by Kate Cross with overseas players: Deandre Dottin (WIndies) Amy Satterthwaite (NZ) and Lizelle Lee (South Africa.) *Commentators’s curse struck immediately. No sooner had Charles Dagnall been ‘impressed’ by Lauren Filer’s ‘in-swing;’ than her first two ‘impressive’ deliveries swung too much and two ‘no.6’ balls were signalled as ‘wides.’ *Separately, Umpires wasted no time warning Annabel Sutherland for bowling too many ‘bouncers’ at Emma Lamb. *Dagnall added that left-arm spinner Alex Hartley (1/17 from 20 balls) was the ‘stand out’ bowler. *Hartley’s first two balls to Lizelle Lee were unplayable: firstly striking Lee’s pad. *Next ball Lizelle Lee (3) launched a top-edge to Claire Nicholas at ‘short fine-leg.’ *Having taken Lee’s wicket, Hartley’s first block of ten balls conceded just six runs. *Deandra Dottin (on 13) had a lucky reprieve when dropped in the deep by Fi Morris. *Main batting partnership added 67 runs from 48 balls, between Deandra Dottin 67*(37) and Emma Lamb 35(41). *Dottin’s ‘fifty’ came from 31 balls, going on to hit 8 ’fours’ and 2 ‘sixes.’ Emma Lamb’s top-edge was ‘well caught’ by Claire Nicholas at ‘deep fine-leg’, from Annabel Sutherland’s slowest ‘bouncer.’ *Deandre Dottin partnered by Sophie Ecclestone added 62 runs from the last 31 balls, targeting off-spinner Hayley Matthews (0/40) with ’sixes.’ Ecclestone’s second ’six’ chalked-up the 150-run milestone for Originals, who closed on 156/2.

Fire’s Innings skippered by Tammy Beaumont with overseas players: Hayley Matthews (WIndies) Rachel Haynes (Australia) and Annabel Sutherland (Australia.),*Opener Tammy Beaumont (36*) had a lucky reprieve when dropped at ‘long-on’ by Grace Potts from Emma Lamb’s spin. *Main partnership between Hayley Matthews 69(41) and Tammy Beaumont 45*(42) took Fire from 39/0 (vs 33/1) after 30 balls, to 73/0 (vs 60/1) by mid-way. Commentators noticed when Matthews play ‘some astonishing shots’ as the ’stand-out performer.’ *Strategic time-out was called at mid-way, with 99 runs needed from 50 balls; at which point SKY statisticians thought otherwise: Fire a nose ‘in front’ but Originals forecast to win. *The match remained neck-and-neck until Sophie Ecclestone’s faster ball clean-bowled Hayley Matthews 69(41.) *After 75 balls, Fire were still a nose ahead: 112/1 vs (102/2.) *Disaster struck when Deandre Dottin dismissed both Australians with consecutive balls, placing herself on a hat-trick. *Firstly Grace Potts caught Rachel Haynes at mid-on, making-up for her earlier dropped catch. *Secondly, Annabel Sutherland ballooned a ‘simple’ catch to Amy Satterthwaite (NZ) at ‘mid-wicket.’ *Thereafter, Tammy Beaumont and Fran Wilson found the boundary only once; restoring viewer’s faith in TV statisticians forecasts.

Summary Commentators said that Top WIndies star Deandre Dottin scuppered any chance of Welsh Fire’s aspirations to win their first game by her ‘fifty’ followed by ‘back-to-back wickets.’ For Originals, Deandre Dottin hit a rapid 67 from 37 balls, partnered by Emma Lamb banking 66 runs for Originals’ second wicket. By way of reply, fellow WIndies star Hayley Matthews matched Dottin by hitting 69 from 41 balls, adding 110 runs without loss with Tammy Beaumont, for Fire. Once the world’s number-one bowler (Sophia Ecclestone) skittled Matthews who’d made top score, Dottin took two wickets with two consecutive balls – dismissing Australians Rachael Haynes (11) and Annabel Sutherland (0) for a first ball duck. Skipper Kate Cross’ time-keeping ensured no penalties were incurred to restrict field settings. Originals were said to have ‘defended well’ to deny the visitors any boundary gaps needed to stand any chance of snatching victory from the last 5 balls.

Result Manchester Originals Women 156/2 beat Welsh Fire Women 145/3 by 11 runs

Originals batting: 156/2 (100 balls 1.56 runs-per-ball) Deandre Dottin 67(37), Sophie Ecclestone 36*(18) Emma Lamb 35(41); Fire bowling: Alex Hartley 1/17, Annabel Sutherland 1/33; Fow 1-27, 2-94.

Fire batting 145/3: (100 balls, 1.45 runs-per-ball) Hayley Matthews 69(41), Tammy Beaumont 45*(42), Fran Wilson 12*(10); Originals bowling: Deandre Dottin 1/21, Sophie Ecclestone 1/27  Fow 1-110, 2-123, 3-123.

Scorecard & Statistics at URL:  https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/the-hundred-women-s-competition-2022-1299144/manchester-originals-women-vs-welsh-fire-women-8th-match-1299152/full-scorecard

Match highlights free-to-air from SKY Sports YouTube [03m28] at URL https://www.skysports.com/the-hundred/news/36890/12674445/the-hundred-deandra-dottin-stars-as-manchester-originals-secure-11-run-win-over-welsh-fire