Oval Invincibles, led by Adam Zampa's remarkable performance, cruised to a commanding nine-wicket victory over London Spirit in The Hundred men's competition at The Oval, bringing them closer to securing a spot in the final.
Australia’s leg-spinner Adam Zampa was instrumental in triggering a dramatic collapse for London Spirit, who went from 40-1 to being bowled out for just 96. Only three of their batters managed to reach double digits in a dismal batting display. Zampa's exceptional figures of 4-17 played a key role in dismantling Spirit’s lineup.
Oval Invincibles made quick work of the modest target, reaching 100-1 with 37 balls remaining. Jordan Cox, recently added to the England Test squad, led the charge with an explosive unbeaten 61 off 30 balls. Cox's innings was studded with nine boundaries, including two towering sixes, the second of which was launched over the bowler’s head to secure a decisive victory.
Sam Curran, another standout for the Invincibles, contributed significantly with the ball, claiming 3-10 from his 15 deliveries. His brother, Tom Curran, also chipped in, taking 2-21 as the Invincibles tightened their grip on the top of the table, two points ahead of Southern Brave, and bolstered by a strong net run rate.
With this victory, the Invincibles have already secured a top-three finish. A win against Trent Rockets on Wednesday would guarantee them a place in the final at Lord's on Sunday.
Meanwhile, London Spirit remains rooted at the bottom of the table, already out of the competition. Highlights of the match included Sam Curran's immediate impact, taking a wicket with his first ball to dismiss opener Keaton Jennings. Zampa's removal of West Indian power hitters Shimron Hetmyer and Andre Russell in just eight deliveries was another pivotal moment.
Donovan Ferreira's fielding was also noteworthy, as he took four catches, setting a record for an Oval Invincibles fielder. The lone wicket for London Spirit came from Olly Stone, who dismissed Will Jacks for two, thanks to a superb catch by Andre Russell running back from mid-off. Dawid Malan contributed an unbeaten 29 from 27 balls, forming an unbroken partnership of 85 with Cox to seal the win.