Welsh Fire Chase Down Spirit’s 150 to Secure First Defeat
Welsh Fire’s relentless pursuit of 151 runs at Lord’s culminated in a thrilling six-wicket victory over London Spirit, marking the visitors’ highest-ever chase in the women’s Hundred. The triumph also snapped Spirit’s unbeaten streak in this year’s competition.
West Indies star Hayley Matthews emerged as the game-changer, blasting an unbeaten 78 off 46 deliveries, her highest score in the tournament. Her innings was a masterclass in power-hitting, featuring 11 boundaries and two towering sixes.
Spirit’s total of 150 for 5 was built on a late surge of aggression from Danni Gibson and Deepti Sharma. Gibson’s 25-ball 41 included six boundaries and a six, while Sharma’s unbeaten 39 off 26 balls showcased her power-hitting prowess.
Former Spirit right-armer Freya Davies played a crucial role for Fire, claiming the key wickets of Meg Lanning and Heather Knight. Her 2 for 19 helped restrict Spirit’s total.
The chase began with a setback for Fire as skipper Tammy Beaumont was trapped lbw by Tara Norris on review. However, Matthews’ brilliance kept the visitors in the hunt. She was dropped on 36, a costly error that proved pivotal.
With 69 runs needed from 40 balls, Matthews took control, finding the boundaries with ease. Eva Gray’s spilled chance when Matthews was on 36 proved costly, as the West Indian star went on to reach her half-century from 37 balls.
Despite losing Jess Jonassen to Sarah Glenn, Matthews continued to dominate, smashing Sharma for a straight six to leave 10 needed off nine. Fittingly, she sealed the victory with another boundary, securing a second win for Welsh Fire.
Spirit’s batting depth was on display as they chased a third straight win. Lanning’s 31 off 20 balls and Gibson’s 41 set the platform, while Sharma’s late fireworks added impetus.