SOUTHAMPTON — Southern Brave surged to the top of The Hundred table with a commanding eight-wicket victory over Northern Superchargers, while Welsh Fire's struggles continued as they suffered a seven-wicket defeat against Manchester Originals.
The Brave, led by a dominant batting display from opener Danni Wyatt, chased down the Superchargers' modest total of 115 with 15 balls to spare. Wyatt's explosive 59 off 38 balls, including nine boundaries, set the tone for a clinical performance at the Ageas Bowl.
Brave's Bowling Dominance
The foundation for Southern Brave's victory was laid by their disciplined bowling attack. Lauren Bell (2-18) and Georgia Adams (2-20) restricted the Superchargers early, while Anya Shrubsole's economical spell (1-15) ensured the visitors never gained momentum. "We knew if we kept it tight early, we could control the game," Shrubsole said post-match.
Northern Superchargers' innings never recovered after losing key wickets in the powerplay. Only Phoebe Litchfield (34 off 28) offered resistance, but the lack of partnerships left them well short of a competitive total.
Wyatt Fires Brave to Victory
Danni Wyatt's aggressive start ensured the chase was never in doubt. She targeted the short boundary with precision, while Smriti Mandhana (28 off 24) provided steady support. "I just wanted to be positive from ball one," Wyatt said. "The pitch was good, and we knew if we got ahead early, the game was ours."
The Brave's middle order barely needed to contribute, with Maia Bouchier (15* off 12) and Georgia Adams (6* off 4) sealing the win comfortably. The result moves them two points clear at the top of the standings.
Fire's Winless Streak Continues
Elsewhere, Welsh Fire's dismal campaign worsened with a seven-wicket loss to Manchester Originals. Despite a fighting 45 from Tammy Beaumont, Fire could only muster 114-7, a total Originals chased down with 10 balls to spare.
Key issues for Fire included:
- Inconsistent batting (only two players reached double figures)
- Poor powerplay returns (28-2 in the first 25 balls)
- Lack of wicket-taking threat in the middle overs
Sophie Ecclestone (2-16) and Fi Morris (1-18) stifled Fire's innings, while Emma Lamb's unbeaten 43 guided Originals home. "We're just not executing under pressure," admitted Fire captain Sarah Taylor.
What This Means for the Table
With this win, Southern Brave (8 points) overtake Oval Invincibles (6 points) at the summit. Manchester Originals (6 points) keep playoff hopes alive, while Welsh Fire remain rooted to the bottom without a win in four matches.
The Superchargers (4 points) slip to fifth, needing a quick turnaround to stay in contention. "We have to be better with the bat," admitted Superchargers skipper Hollie Armitage.
Key Takeaways
- Southern Brave's balanced attack makes them title favorites
- Danni Wyatt in imperious form (leading run-scorer with 189)
- Welsh Fire's playoff hopes all but over after fourth straight loss
The Hundred resumes on Thursday with a double-header: Trent Rockets face London Spirit, while Birmingham Phoenix take on Oval Invincibles in a top-four clash.
"Every game is crucial now," said Brave coach Charlotte Edwards. "We're in a good position, but we can't afford to relax."