LONDON – In a thrilling last-ball derby, London Spirit and Oval Invincibles ended in a dramatic tie at Lord’s, captivating a crowd of 17,810 as part of The Hundred tournament.
A brilliant last-minute run out by Charlie Dean denied the Invincibles a victory that had seemed probable as they chased a target of 114 runs. Despite needing two runs off the final delivery, the visitors were left in disbelief.
The clash showcased outstanding performances from international stars, with South Africa’s Marizanne Kapp leading the Invincibles with impressive figures of 4-11 while also contributing a swift 47 runs. On the other side, India’s Deepti Sharma scored 44 runs and took 3 wickets for 18 runs.
Captain Lauren Winfield-Hill’s decision to bowl first paid immediate dividends, as Kapp dismissed renowned Australian player Meg Lanning with her fourth delivery. After a promising start from Cordelia Griffith and Georgia Redmayne, Kapp struck again, sending both batters back to the pavilion.
With Spirit struggling at 57-5, Sharma displayed resilience, scoring six boundaries in a compelling 34-ball innings. Her contributions, supported by Dean and Eva Gray, helped the hosts finish with a total of 113-9 despite a late-game collapse.
In the chase, the Spirit struck early, taking down both Invincibles openers. Kapp, however, led a counterattack with a strong 47 runs off 32 balls, building a crucial 55-run partnership with Alice Capsey, who added 31 runs before being dismissed. As wickets fell, the tension escalated, culminating in a nail-biting finish where the Invincibles needed just four runs from the last eight balls.
Ultimately, Kapp’s dismissal proved pivotal as the last over unfolded in suspense. Dean’s brilliant throw from the deep secured the tie, leaving the final moments electrifying.
Player of the Match: Marizanne Kapp
“I’m extremely disappointed as I feel my wicket cost us the game,” Kapp reflected. “Our plan was to take it deep and play our best bowlers.”
Chargers Secure Another Win
Northern Superchargers triumphed in the northern derby against Manchester Originals, marking their second consecutive victory. Playing before a record crowd at Headingley of 11,061, the Originals won the toss and opted to bowl first.
Superchargers’ Annabel Sutherland and Phoebe Litchfield dominated with the bat, scoring 44 and 43 runs respectively as they posted a score of 138-4. Strong performances from the Superchargers bowlers, including Kate Cross’s impressive 4-20, led to the Originals’ downfall.
Player of the Match: Annabel Sutherland
“It was a complete team performance. Our batters delivered, and the bowlers executed the plan excellently,” Sutherland said.
What’s Next?
The Hundred continues to ignite excitement with two matches scheduled for Monday, featuring Welsh Fire versus Southern Brave. Maintaining momentum, fans are eager to see how the tournament unfolds.
