Former Australia captain Steven Smith finally came good with the bat, guiding Welsh Fire to a convincing eight-wicket victory over Birmingham Phoenix with 11 balls to spare at Edgbaston on Friday night. After the bowlers restricted Phoenix to 138/9, Smith’s unbeaten 47 (36 balls) anchored the chase, lifting Fire from the bottom of the table to seventh place.
Bowling brilliance sets the tone
Chris Green (3-27), debutant Ben Kellaway (2-10) and Riley Meredith (2-25) dismantled Phoenix’s batting effort, never allowing them momentum. Jacob Bethell top-scored with 38 from 28 balls, but the Fire’s spinners applied a stranglehold. Kellaway impressed on debut with two wickets, a catch and a run-out — a complete performance that earned him deserved plaudits.
I’m absolutely delighted. Making my debut was special enough, but to contribute and get a win was really nice.
Eskinazi, Bairstow, Smith see Fire home
Stevie Eskinazi broke the back of the chase with 42 off 29, while Jonny Bairstow added fireworks with a quick 35 (21). Smith, struggling for runs in the tournament with just 29 as his previous best, finally looked settled and ensured the target was reached comfortably. Despite Bairstow being bowled by Adam Milne after launching him for a six into the Hollies Stand, Fire never lost control. Captain Tom Abell finished things off with ease.
Women’s Hundred: Fire finally ignite with first win
At the same venue earlier in the day, Welsh Fire women celebrated their first victory of the season, beating Birmingham Phoenix by 36 runs to snap a five-match losing streak. Sophia Dunkley’s 53 (43 balls) gave Fire a solid start, while Jess Jonassen (44 off 17) and Hayley Matthews (34* off 33) provided the finishing power in a total of 150/3.
Phoenix stumble in the chase
South African pacer Shabnim Ismail (3-16) rocked Phoenix early, removing both openers for ducks and later dismissing Ellyse Perry (55 from 43), the only batter to resist. Jonassen and Matthews also chipped in with three wickets each as Phoenix were restricted to 114/9.
It’s really nice we got a win today. We’ve been searching all season. Things clicked, but we still have improvements to make.
What’s next in The Hundred
• Men’s: London Spirit vs Southern Brave (Lord’s); Northern Superchargers vs Oval Invincibles (Headingley)
• Women’s: Same fixtures at the respective venues
