Oval Invincibles clinched their second consecutive title, defeating Southern Brave by 17 runs in a thrilling The Hundred final. The Invincibles posted a competitive total of 147/9, with Will Jacks anchoring the innings with a vital 37. Tom Curran’s explosive cameo of 24 off just 11 balls added crucial late runs. Southern Brave’s chase faltered after a promising start, as their middle order collapsed under pressure. Saqib Mahmood starred with the ball for Oval, claiming three crucial wickets, effectively sealing the victory. The Invincibles’ all-round performance ensured their dominance and secured back-to-back titles in The Hundred competition.
Match Summary
- Toss: James Vince (SB) won the toss and chose to field
- Oval Invincibles Innings: 147/9 in 100 balls
- Will Jacks: 37 (22)
- Tom Curran: 24 (11)
- Key Bowler: Akeal Hosein (3/34) in 20 balls
- Southern Brave Innings: 130/7 in 100 balls
- Alex Davies: 35 (23)
- James Vince: 24 (22)
- Key Bowler: Saqib Mahmood (3/17) in 20 balls
Key Moments
Will Jacks’ Powerful Beginning
Will Jacks gave a brilliant start to the Oval’s innings, setting the tone with aggressive intent. Targeting Jofra Archer and Craig Overton, he dominated from the outset, punishing the bowlers with powerful strokes and a fearless approach. Jacks displayed exceptional timing and power, smashing boundaries at will and maintaining a strike rate of 170, putting the pressure on the opposition. His rapid 37 off 22 balls provided Oval with a solid foundation, allowing the rest of the batting lineup to build on his explosive start. Jacks’ knock was a key factor in setting the momentum early, ensuring that Oval was in a strong position as the innings progressed.
Tom Curran’s Masterclass Cameo
Tom Curran walked in to bat at a crucial juncture, with Oval Invincibles in a tough situation after 75 deliveries. Undeterred by the pressure, Curran launched a fearless counter-attack, immediately targeting Jofra Archer. He smashed two colossal sixes off Archer, shifting the momentum in favor of his side. Curran’s quickfire cameo of 24 off just 11 balls proved vital, lifting the Invincibles to a respectable total of 147/9. His timely aggression provided a much-needed boost to the innings ensuring they had something to defend despite earlier setbacks. 
Akeal Hosein and Tymal Mills’ Mastery
Akeal Hosein and Tymal Mills were pivotal in keeping the run rate in check for Southern Brave. The Caribbean star made a significant impact by removing Sam Curran and Sam Billings in consecutive deliveries, applying immediate pressure. He wrapped up his spell by dismissing the dangerous Donovan Ferreira, finishing with key breakthroughs.
Meanwhile, Mills contributed by taking the wicket of the well-set Will Jacks. Adjusting his pace with clever slower deliveries, Mills continued his impressive performance dismissing both Jordan Cox and Tom Lammonby. Their combined efforts were crucial in restricting the opposition’s scoring making them the standout bowlers for the Brave.
Saqib Mahmood’s Match-Winning Spell
The turning point of the match came from English pacer Saqib Mahmood who delivered crucial breakthroughs for Oval Invincibles. Mahmood first dismissed the in-form Leus du Plooy, setting the tone for a strong bowling display. He then showcased his skill by getting rid of the dangerous Kieron Pollard for a low score, tightening the grip on Southern Brave. Mahmood’s decisive moment came when he removed Brave’s last hope, Laurie Evans on the 78th delivery, effectively sealing the game in Oval’s favor.
Implications and Future Prospects
Defending a stiff target of 148, Oval Invincibles faced an aggressive start from Davies and Vince, but Adam Zampa’s introduction changed the momentum. Zampa broke the partnership, and soon after, Will Jacks removed the crucial wicket of Vince, causing the Brave’s chase to stumble. With the asking rate climbing, no one stepped up to fill Vince’s role.
Saqib Mahmood’s three wickets in a brilliant 10-ball set sealed the game, turning it into a mere formality. Sam Billings’ captaincy was spot-on, with precise bowling and fielding changes that kept the pressure on. Despite a strong start, Southern Brave were ultimately outclassed by a superior side on The Hundred final, and fatigue from their previous match showed.
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