Invincibles Secure Back-to-Back Hundred Titles with Commanding Win
Invincibles Overcome Brave in Thrilling Final
In an exhilarating showdown at Lord’s, the Oval Invincibles defended their Hundred title with aplomb, securing a 17-run victory over Southern Brave. The final score read 147-9 to 130-7, marking a historical repeat championship for the Invincibles in this fast-paced men’s competition.
Early Strikes Set Tone for Invincibles’ Victory
The match began with the Invincibles setting a challenging target of 148. Will Jacks emerged as a pivotal figure early on, striking a brisk 37 off 22 balls, setting the stage with his aggressive play. Despite none of the batters pushing on to a big score, timely contributions came from Sam Curran and Jordan Cox, who both added crucial mid-innings 25s, while Tom Curran’s explosive 24 off 11 balls towards the end further bolstered their total.
Southern Brave’s response was spearheaded by opener Alex Davies, who scored a swift 35 from 23 deliveries. However, the game took a dramatic turn thanks to the Invincibles’ sharp bowling attack. Adam Zampa initiated the collapse by dismissing Davies, paving the way for fast bowler Saqib Mahmood to dismantle the middle order. Mahmood’s spectacular spell included taking three wickets in just seven balls, a decisive move that shifted the momentum squarely in favour of the Invincibles.
Key Performances Highlight Invincibles’ Depth
Tymal Mills shone for the Brave, claiming impressive figures of 3-33, but his efforts were overshadowed by the collective performance of the Invincibles’ squad. Jacks, not only contributed with the bat but also took the critical wicket of Brave’s captain and leading scorer, James Vince, further denting the Brave’s hopes.
The Invincibles showcased their all-round capabilities, smoothly transitioning from batting to fielding. Their ability to bounce back from any setbacks, like losing 4 wickets for just 9 runs, demonstrated a resilience and depth that Brave struggled to match.
Champions Demonstrate Unwavering Resolve
As the match progressed, the Invincibles maintained their composure, unaffected by the building partnership of Vince and Davies. The breakthrough finally came from Zampa, who concluded the tournament tied as the leading wicket-taker alongside Mills. This wicket was crucial in halting Brave’s momentum and reaffirming the Invincibles’ dominance.
Further contributions from Nathan Sowter and the tournament’s standout player, Sam Curran, underscored a well-rounded team performance, ensuring the match did not reach a nail-biting conclusion but instead celebrated the Invincibles’ continued supremacy in the Hundred.
Reactions to a Remarkable Victory
Reflecting on the victory, Oval Invincibles captain Sam Billings expressed his elation, “Amazing. Just a real team effort throughout the tournament, probably even better than last year. It didn’t go all our way and that’s the strength of the group.”
“Saqib Mahmood came and changed the game with that set of 10.”
Adam Zampa, delighted by the atmosphere and the occasion, remarked, “I love this tournament. Days like today – the way Lord’s put the day on, the women’s game before us – it is a really good event.”
Meanwhile, a disheartened Laurie Evans from Southern Brave commented, “I’m gutted to be honest. It is the third year in a row [losing in the final]. All credit has to go to Oval Invincibles, they are a great team and have been for the last two years.”
Saqib Mahmood, reflecting on his performance and future aspirations, stated, “I don’t want to sound arrogant but we just knew from the start we’d win. I don’t know what it was. I really wanted to use this competition to try and get back in the England white-ball side. I haven’t played that much red-ball cricket, I’ve still got to get my body used to that. If I can get back into that white-ball team, that is my main target.”
In an event filled with drama and outstanding performances, the Invincibles not only retained their title but also solidified their status as one of the premier teams in the Hundred’s young history.
