NOTTINGHAM — Rehan Ahmed delivered a match-winning all-round performance as Trent Rockets secured a thrilling five-wicket victory over Northern Superchargers in The Hundred, keeping their playoff hopes alive in a high-stakes encounter at Trent Bridge.
Ahmed Shines with Bat and Ball
The 19-year-old leg-spinner, already touted as England's next big spin prospect, took 2 for 19 from his 20-ball spell, including the crucial wickets of Tom Banton and Adam Hose. Later, he played a pivotal role with the bat, smashing an unbeaten 31 off just 18 balls to guide the Rockets home with three balls to spare.
"Rehan was outstanding today," said Rockets captain Lewis Gregory. "He's got that fearless attitude, whether he's bowling in the powerplay or finishing games with the bat. That's why we back him in big moments."
Superchargers Stumble Despite Early Promise
Northern Superchargers, opting to bat first, got off to a flying start with Phil Salt (42 off 23) and Banton (28 off 16) putting on 68 in just 35 balls. However, Ahmed's introduction turned the tide:
- Banton holed out to deep midwicket off Ahmed's third ball
- Hose was stumped attempting an ambitious reverse sweep
- Daniel Sams (3-22) cleaned up the middle order with his variations
The Superchargers collapsed from 68/0 to 132 all out, losing their last six wickets for just 24 runs in 19 balls. "We lost our way completely after the powerplay," admitted Superchargers skipper Wayne Parnell.
Rockets Chase Down Target in Tense Finish
Trent Rockets' chase stuttered early as David Malan fell for a golden duck, but Alex Hales (35 off 22) and Colin Munro (27 off 18) rebuilt the innings. When both departed in quick succession, the game hung in the balance at 78/4.
Ahmed, promoted ahead of Samit Patel, took charge with a flurry of boundaries:
- 14 runs off Adil Rashid's set of five
- A six over long-on against Callum Parkinson
- The winning runs clipped fine off Brydon Carse
"I just trusted my instincts," Ahmed told Sky Sports afterwards. "The coaches have given me freedom to play my natural game, whether that's attacking with the ball or taking risks batting down the order."
Playoff Picture Tightens
The victory moves Trent Rockets to third in the table with three wins from five, while the Superchargers slip to fifth. With just three points separating the top five teams, every match becomes crucial in the race for the knockout stages.
Key takeaways from the match:
- Ahmed's economy rate of 0.95 runs per ball was the best among bowlers from either side
- The Rockets have now won their last six encounters against the Superchargers
- Attendance: 14,872 - Trent Bridge's largest crowd of the tournament so far
What's Next for Both Teams?
Trent Rockets face table-toppers Oval Invincibles on Thursday in a top-of-the-table clash, while Northern Superchargers host Birmingham Phoenix on Friday needing a win to stay in contention.
"This competition is wide open now," said Nasser Hussain on commentary. "The Rockets have shown they can win tight games, and with Rehan coming into form, they look dangerous."
As The Hundred reaches its business end, Ahmed's emergence as a genuine all-round threat gives England selectors another exciting option ahead of next year's T20 World Cup. For now though, the teenager remains focused on delivering for his franchise. "I'm just enjoying my cricket and trying to contribute wherever I can," he said with characteristic understatement.