Phoenix Triumph in a Tense Encounter at Edgbaston

In a crucial match at Edgbaston, Birmingham Phoenix secured a vital six-wicket victory over Trent Rockets, with Tim Southee’s outstanding performance leading the way. The New Zealand fast bowler delivered a remarkable spell, taking 5-12, which played a significant role in restricting the Rockets to a modest total of 118.

Southee struck early in the innings, removing Tom Banton and Joe Root, and later claimed three more wickets in the final five balls. Although a review prevented him from achieving a hat-trick after John Turner was initially declared out lbw, Southee’s figures still ranked as the second-best in The Hundred men’s competition.

Despite losing Tom Alsop, who impressed with 51 runs off 37 balls during his debut for the visitors, the Rockets’ batting lineup struggled. Turner and Luke Wood also created tension in Phoenix's chase by putting them under pressure at 52-4. However, the modest target allowed Phoenix to recover through a critical partnership.

Liam Livingstone (30 from 32 balls) and Jacob Bethell formed a patient, unbeaten stand of 68 runs, guiding Phoenix to victory with seven balls remaining. This win elevated Phoenix to third place, ensuring their path to the eliminator remains in their control, while the Rockets were knocked out of contention. 

Earlier in the match, the Rockets found themselves struggling at 22-4 after 30 balls, but a 77-run partnership between Alsop and Imad Wasim, who was retired out on 29, provided some stability. For the Phoenix, Adam Milne delivered an excellent bowling performance, conceding just 17 runs in his spell.

Ben Duckett contributed 30 runs from 16 balls, giving Phoenix a strong start in their chase, but it was a challenging night for some of England's Test batsmen. Joe Root managed only two runs, and Jamie Smith was dismissed without scoring. 

The match also featured five players who were on the brink of hat-tricks: Nat Sciver-Brunt and Ashleigh Gardner in the women's game, followed by Southee, Wood, and Turner in the men's match. However, none succeeded in completing the feat.