Birmingham Phoenix emerged victorious in a rain-shortened match against Manchester Originals, securing a spot in The Hundred Eliminator. The Phoenix chased down a modest target of 42 with ease, winning by nine wickets.
Phoenix captain Moeen Ali won the toss and elected to bowl first. Kiwi speedster Adam Milne struck early, removing Matthew Hurst in the second over. Tim Southee conceded a six to Phil Salt but dismissed him soon after. Sean Abbott and Milne continued the onslaught, accounting for Paul Walter and Max Holden respectively. Chris Wood wrapped up the innings with the wicket of Sikandar Raza, restricting the Originals to a mere 41 for 5.
In response, Birmingham Phoenix made light work of the chase. Jamie Smith set the tone with two boundaries off Fazalhaq Farooqi in the first over. Ben Duckett took over the mantle, smashing Tom Aspinwall for a six and three boundaries. Smith departed for 14, but Duckett (22*) and Moeen (6*) guided the Phoenix home with eight balls to spare.
Milne, who finished with figures of 2 for 8, was named the Meerkat Match Hero. He attributed his success to the swing and seam on offer, emphasizing the importance of adapting to different conditions in shortened formats.
The victory sends Birmingham Phoenix to The Hundred Eliminator, where they will face Southern Brave at The Kia Oval on Saturday. Andrew Flintoff’s first year as Northern Superchargers Head Coach ends with a fourth-place finish.
