The league phase of The Hundred 2025 ended in breathtaking fashion as Southern Brave edged past Welsh Fire by just 4 runs in a last-ball thriller. Jason Roy’s dazzling knock of 70 and Craig Overton’s crucial all-round show carried Southern Brave to victory. The result lifted Brave to fourth in the standings while Welsh Fire slipped to the bottom after a disappointing campaign.
Brave Struggle Early, Roy Takes Control
Welsh Fire opted to bowl first and struck early. Southern Brave lost three of their top four batters for single-digit scores. Amid the early collapse, Jason Roy stood tall. He blasted consecutive sixes, first to break the shackles, and then repeated the big hits against Saif Zaib. Roy’s fluent batting looked effortless on a surface where others struggled.
He soon brought up his first fifty of the season with a mixture of aggressive strokes and clever placement. The highlight came when he attacked Riley Meredith, smashing him for multiple boundaries in quick succession. Roy eventually reached 70 and looked set for more before falling during a collapse. Southern Brave were suddenly reduced to 129 for 7, leaving the innings in danger of fizzling out.
Overton and Thompson Provide Crucial Late Runs
At that stage, Craig Overton and Jordan Thompson stepped in with valuable lower-order cameos. Both played freely and connected well to drag their side back into the contest. Their lusty blows lifted Brave to 167 for 7 in 100 balls, which looked competitive on a tricky surface. For Welsh Fire, David Payne was the most effective bowler, finishing with excellent figures of 2 for 17.
Fire Stumble in Chase, Overton Strikes Early
The chase got off to a poor start for Welsh Fire. Craig Overton caused immediate damage, removing Stephen Eskinazi and Steven Smith in the very first set. The early breakthroughs were followed by a bigger setback when Jonny Bairstow nicked one behind for just 5.
From 20 for 3, the Fire struggled to recover. Tom Abell attempted to steady the innings but soon perished as the pressure mounted. At 51 for 4, the Fire looked out of the contest. However, Tom Kohler-Cadmore and Ben Kellaway turned the match with a spirited counterattack.
Kohler-Cadmore’s Explosive Knock Shifts Momentum
Kohler-Cadmore took charge, unleashing his full range of strokes. James Coles bore the brunt as he was dispatched for consecutive sixes on two separate occasions. The pair added 81 for the fifth wicket, bringing Fire back into contention and silencing the Brave supporters.
With 36 required off the final 21 deliveries, Welsh Fire held the momentum. Kohler-Cadmore looked unstoppable, while Kellaway rotated strike effectively to keep the scoreboard ticking. The Brave bowlers were suddenly under pressure as boundaries flowed freely.
Brave Bowlers Hold Nerve at the Death
The breakthrough finally came when the partnership was broken, giving Southern Brave a chance to regain control. From there, Jordan Thompson and Tymal Mills executed their yorkers and slower balls perfectly, pulling things back in the closing stages.
With 13 required off 4 balls, Kohler-Cadmore smashed a huge six to reignite hopes. However, he was dismissed on the very next delivery, ending Welsh Fire’s comeback dream. Facing 6 runs needed off the last ball, Thompson held his nerve and conceded just a single.
Key Performers Seal the Game
Jason Roy’s innings of 70 laid the foundation for Southern Brave. His aggressive intent from the start proved decisive. Craig Overton’s contribution with both bat and ball was equally crucial. He not only struck important runs in the lower order but also took 3 for 22, including the prized wickets of Eskinazi and Smith.
For Welsh Fire, Tom Kohler-Cadmore produced a brilliant 84, almost single-handedly dragging his side to victory. Yet, his dismissal at the wrong moment cost Fire dearly. Ben Kellaway’s calm support role added substance, but their combined efforts were not enough.
Brief Scores
Southern Brave 167/7 in 100 balls (Jason Roy 70; David Payne 2/17)
Welsh Fire 163/6 in 100 balls (Tom Kohler-Cadmore 84; Craig Overton 3/22)
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