LONDON — Alice Capsey delivered a match-winning performance as Oval Invincibles secured their first victory of the 2024 Women’s Hundred with a dominant 34-run win over Birmingham Phoenix at Edgbaston. The 19-year-old all-rounder, who has been tipped as one of England’s brightest talents, showcased her explosive batting and clever off-spin to dismantle the Phoenix.
Capsey’s blistering 59 off 39 balls, studded with seven fours and two sixes, anchored the Invincibles’ innings, helping them post a competitive 143 for 6. She then returned with the ball to claim 2 for 18, including the key wicket of Phoenix captain Sophie Devine, as the hosts were bowled out for 109 in 89 balls. "It’s been a while since I’ve felt this good with the bat," Capsey admitted after the match. "Today everything just clicked."
Capsey’s Redemption Arc
After a quiet start to the tournament, Capsey’s innings was a reminder of her destructive potential. She targeted the short boundaries at Edgbaston, particularly punishing Phoenix’s spinners, including England teammate Sarah Glenn. Her fifty came off just 32 deliveries, and her partnership with Marizanne Kapp (28 off 23) proved decisive. "Alice took the pressure off me completely," Kapp said. "She’s fearless, and that’s what makes her special."
Key moments from Capsey’s innings:
- A six over long-on off Glenn in the 25th ball
- Back-to-back boundaries against Issy Wong’s pace in the 50th ball
- A reverse-swept four off Emily Arlott that brought up her half-century
Phoenix’s Batting Collapse
Chasing 144, Phoenix never gained momentum. Openers Devine (12) and Eve Jones (9) fell early, and despite a brief resistance from Amy Jones (22), the middle order crumbled under pressure. Capsey’s off-breaks accounted for Devine and Phoebe Franklin, while Sophia Smale (3 for 16) and Kapp (2 for 19) ensured no late fightback. "We lost wickets in clusters and never recovered," admitted Devine. "Credit to Oval—they outplayed us in every department."
Turning Point: Capsey’s Double Strike
The match swung decisively in the 40th ball when Capsey removed Devine, caught at deep mid-wicket, and Franklin, stumped two balls later. From 45 for 2, Phoenix slumped to 52 for 4, and the required rate spiraled. "Those two wickets broke the game open," said Invincibles skipper Lauren Winfield-Hill. "Alice has that knack for big moments."
Invincibles’ Bowling Masterclass
Oval’s bowlers executed their plans perfectly. Smale’s left-arm spin exploited the pitch’s grip, while Kapp’s seamers stifled the scoring. Even without injured star spinner Sarah Bryce, the attack never relented. Notable performances:
- Smale’s 3 for 16—her best figures in The Hundred
- Kapp’s economical spell, including 12 dot balls
- Capsey’s 2 for 18, adding to her Player of the Match display
Phoenix’s innings folded in just 89 balls, their lowest total in this year’s competition. "We’ve got to be better with the bat," said Amy Jones. "No excuses—this wasn’t good enough."
What This Means for the Standings
The win lifts Invincibles off the bottom of the table, while Phoenix remain winless after two games. With Southern Brave and Welsh Fire looking strong early, both teams need consistency. "This is just the start," warned Winfield-Hill. "We’ve got to build momentum now."
Capsey’s return to form is a major boost for England ahead of next month’s T20 World Cup. Her ability to dominate spin and chip in with wickets makes her a vital asset. "Alice showed why she’s one to watch," said BBC commentator Isa Guha. "When she’s on, she’s unstoppable."
The Invincibles face Welsh Fire next, while Phoenix take on London Spirit. If Capsey maintains this form, Oval could yet challenge for the title. For now, though, the focus is on savoring a statement victory. "We needed this," Capsey smiled. "Hopefully, it’s the first of many."