Trent Rockets triumphed over Oval Invincibles by six wickets in a thrilling The Hundred match, with six balls to spare. Despite Dawid Malan’s impressive half-century and strong contributions from the top order, the Invincibles couldn’t set a challenging target. Malan’s resilience at the crease anchored their innings, but the lack of acceleration in the middle overs proved costly.
The rockets’ response was spearheaded by Rovman Powell and Tom Alsop, who both played impactful innings. Powell’s powerful hitting and Aslop’s calm composure steered the chase with ease. Their efforts ensured that the Rockets completely overhauled the Invincibles’ total, securing the win in the final over to keep their Men’s Hundred campaign on track.
Match Summary
- Toss: Sam Billings (OI) won the toss and chose to bat
- Oval Invincibles Innings: 150/3 in 100 balls
- Dawid Malan: 53* (43)
- Jordan Cox: 39 (30)
- Key Bowler: Sam Cook (2/23) in 20 balls
- Trent Rockets: 151/4 in 94 balls
- Rovman Powell: 45 (27)
- Tom Alsop: 41 (24)
- Key Bowler: Nathan Sowter (1/18) in 15 balls
Key Moments
Oval’s Dominant Second-Wicket Partnership
Will Jacks and Dawid Malan provided a steady start for Oval Invincibles, putting together a 47-run stand at the top of the order. Their partnership laid a solid foundation, with the Oval side reaching 47/0. However, Jacks’ dismissal shifted the momentum, and it was up to Malan and Jordan Cox to keep the innings on track. The southpaw anchored the batting, crafting a brilliant 53 off 43 balls, mixing aggression with caution. Cox offered solid support, contributing 39 off 30 deliveries. Their partnership propelled the Oval Invincibles to a competitive 150/3 by the end of their innings. Despite their efforts, it wasn’t enough as the opposition chased down the target in the final over. 
Rovman Powell and Tom Alsop’s Batting Camaraderie
Trent Rockets found themselves in a tricky situation after losing Alex Hales and Joe Root quickly, which put pressure on their chase early. The team seemed in a dilemma, but Rovman Powell and Tom Alsop stepped up to steady the innings. Showing immense grit, the pair took on the Oval Invincibles’ bowlers, launching several deliveries over the boundaries to regain control of the game.
The Caribbean powerhouse delivered a stunning knock of 45 off 27 balls, while Alsop showcased his composure, scoring an impressive 41 off 24. Their crucial 80-run stand turned the game in favor of the Rockets. Their partnership ensured that the target was easily chased down, as Trent Rockets sealed the victory in the 94th delivery, winning the game by six wickets with one over to spare.
Implications and Future Prospects
The Rockets concluded their season on a high note, leaving the Oval Invincibles waiting anxiously for a direct entry to the final. The chase was well-executed, with Alex Hales providing an aggressive start during the powerplay. After his departure, Tom Alsop and Rovman Powell took charge. Alsop continued his fine form from the previous match, hammering Adam Zampa for consecutive sixes. Zampa’s wicketless outing, his first of The Hundred 2024, proved to be a key factor in the game.
Although Powell had some difficulty against Sam Curran’s slower cutters, he still delivered powerful strikes. Curran’s night ended prematurely after bowling two beamers, and Alsop wrapped up the chase with six balls to spare. While the Invincibles still have a chance to secure a spot in the final, it all hinges on Thursday’s game with Phoenix. Currently, the Invincibles hold the advantage due to their superior NRR, but the final group-stage match will decide everything.
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