Phoebe Litchfield etched her name into the record books with a sensational innings. Scoring 71 runs off just 33 balls, she smashed the fastest half-century in the history of the women’s Hundred. Her explosive performance led SunRisers Leeds to a convincing nine-wicket victory over Birmingham Phoenix at Edgbaston. Litchfield’s brilliance lifted her team to the target of 108 with 31 balls to spare, proving decisive in the tight contest.
Phoenix's top order faces yet more trouble
Birmingham Phoenix struggled from the start of their batting innings. They managed a modest 107-9, with their top order continuing to underperform. Davina Perrin, Tammy Beaumont, and Alice Capsey all failed to make an impact, scoring single-digit totals. Their middle order offered little resistance as SunRisers’ bowlers kept the pressure on. Ellyse Perry tried to steady the innings, hammering a 22-ball 31 to provide some brief hope. But her dismissal to a catch by Litchfield off Jess Jonassen signaled the end of Phoenix’s chances. Only Emma Lamb made a significant contribution, scoring 47 in just her second game of the season.
Litchfield's record-breaking performance
Litchfield took full control of the chase with a stunning display of shot-making. The left-handed Australian swept, ramped, and drove with effortless precision. One of the highlights was a straight six off her compatriot Ellyse Perry, which drew loud cheers from the crowd. Her 71 not only broke a record but also turned the match in SunRisers’ favor. The final 20 balls of Phoenix’s innings summed up their struggles, as they lost five wickets for just 18 runs. Bryony Smith and Lauren Winfield-Hill supported Litchfield with scores of 12 and 26, with Winfield-Hill providing valuable stability. Litchfield, however, was the star, dazzling with a range of innovative shots including the switch-hit and the cover drive. She reached her half-century in 20 deliveries and hit 13 fours and one six in her innings.
The win kept SunRisers in the hunt for a place in the finals while eliminating Birmingham Phoenix, London Spirit, and MI London. Litchfield reflected on her performance during a post-match interview, stating, “You die by the sword at times but I think putting the pressure back on the bowlers is the way to go in T20 or Hundred cricket. Momentum in cricket is an amazing thing.” She emphasized the importance of pressuring bowlers and pushing the game to your advantage, a strategy she believes is crucial in T20 and Hundred formats. Her words summed up the confidence and aggression that defined her innings.
SunRisers’ victory was powered by a disciplined bowling attack that smothered Phoenix throughout the match. Deepti Sharma, Sutherland, Jess Jonassen, and Kate Cross all delivered tight spells. Cross was particularly effective, claiming two wickets after going 11 games without taking one. Their excellent economy rates prevented Phoenix from building any momentum beyond Perry’s brief cameo and Lamb’s late efforts. The bowlers’ collective performance was a key factor in securing the win.
With the result, the remaining group fixtures are shaping up to be highly competitive. Women’s matches will run from Saturday, August 8, through Wednesday, August 12. Key games include MI London versus Trent Rockets and Southern Brave against Manchester Super Giants. The eliminator and final are set for Friday, August 14, and Sunday, August 16, respectively, with both matches to be held at Lord’s. Fans can watch every match of The Hundred through to the finals on Sunday, August 16, with the option to view games contract-free on NOW, making it easier for viewers to follow all the action.