Birmingham Phoenix vs Welsh Fire

Birmingham Phoenix secured a vital five-wicket victory against Welsh Fire at Sophia Gardens, effectively ending Fire's playoff hopes in The Hundred. The Phoenix, chasing 147, initially thrived with an opening partnership of 114 between Moeen Ali (60) and Ben Duckett (54 not out) but faced a dramatic collapse from 133-1 to 138-5 before Duckett stabilized the innings. Sean Abbott starred with the ball for Phoenix, taking 4-16, as Fire could only manage 146-8, with Tom Kohler-Cadmore contributing a quick 54. Meanwhile, in the women's competition, Phoenix also claimed a narrow nine-run win over Fire, with Ellyse Perry's bowling performance pivotal in restricting Fire to 112-8 while defending a total of 121-7. This victory keeps Phoenix's hopes alive in both the men's and women's competitions, needing to win their remaining matches to secure playoff spots. Both teams must now rely on favorable outcomes in the final games of the tournament.