By Rolando Cronin 
A Historic Night at Edgbaston
On August 22, 2025, Edgbaston Stadium buzzed with electric energy as Welsh Fire’s women’s and men’s teams both clinched their first wins of The Hundred 2025 season against Birmingham Phoenix. The women’s team delivered a commanding 36-run victory, eliminating Phoenix from playoff contention, while the men’s side cruised to an eight-wicket triumph, keeping their slim knockout hopes alive. This doubleheader was a turning point for Welsh Fire, a moment of redemption after a challenging start to the campaign.
The Hundred: A Crash Course in Cricket’s Fastest Format
What Is The Hundred?
The Hundred is English cricket’s bold, fast-paced T20-style competition, featuring eight city-based teams playing 100-ball innings. Launched in 2021, it’s designed to thrill with rapid action, simplified rules, and a vibrant atmosphere. Matches like Welsh Fire vs. Birmingham Phoenix at Edgbaston showcase its appeal, drawing diverse crowds with music, fireworks, and non-stop excitement.
Why Edgbaston Is a Special Venue
Edgbaston, home to Birmingham Phoenix, is a fortress of cricket history with a raucous crowd. Known for high-scoring games, its 162-run average first-innings score in 2025 made it a batter’s paradise. On August 22, Welsh Fire defied the odds, leveraging Edgbaston’s lively pitch to post commanding totals.
Women’s Match: Welsh Fire’s Dominant Display
Setting the Tone with the Bat
Welsh Fire’s women, desperate for a win after five straight losses, posted an impressive 150-3. Sophia Dunkley’s 53 off 43 balls laid a solid foundation, while Jess Jonassen’s explosive 44 off 17, including four consecutive sixes, set Edgbaston alight. Hayley Matthews’ steady 34 not out ensured a formidable target, the team’s highest of the season.
Shabnim Ismail’s Fiery Opening Spell
South African pacer Shabnim Ismail decimated Phoenix’s top order, dismissing Emma Lamb and Marie Kelly for ducks within six balls. Her 3-16 haul, including a maiden, crippled Phoenix’s chase early. Ismail’s raw pace and pinpoint accuracy made her the match’s unsung hero, proving why she’s a global T20 star.
Jess Jonassen’s All-Round Brilliance
Jonassen was the heartbeat of Fire’s victory, earning Player of the Match. Beyond her blistering batting, she claimed 3-24, removing key Phoenix batters like Georgia Voll. Her ability to shift momentum, especially after a missed stumping, showcased her experience and composure under pressure.
Birmingham Phoenix’s Struggles
Despite Ellyse Perry’s valiant 55 off 43, Phoenix crumbled to 114-9. Their batting lacked partnerships, with only Perry and Voll (28 off 24) offering resistance. Defensive errors, like Amy Jones’ missed stumping, and Freya Davies’ tight 0-19 spell sealed Phoenix’s fate, ending their playoff hopes.
Men’s Match: Welsh Fire’s Clinical Chase
Birmingham Phoenix’s Faltering Innings
Birmingham Phoenix’s men managed 138-9, a below-par total on Edgbaston’s batting-friendly pitch. Jacob Bethell’s 38 off 28 was the highlight, but regular wickets stifled their momentum. Welsh Fire’s bowlers, led by Chris Green (3-27) and debutant Ben Kellaway (2-10), kept Phoenix in check, with Kellaway’s catches adding flair.
Stephen Eskinazi and Jonny Bairstow Ignite the Chase
Welsh Fire’s reply was a masterclass in controlled aggression. Opener Stephen Eskinazi smashed 42 off 26, setting a brisk pace, while Jonny Bairstow’s 35 off 21 injected firepower. Their partnership ensured Fire stayed ahead of the asking rate, silencing the Edgbaston crowd early.
Steve Smith’s Anchor Role
Steve Smith’s unbeaten 47 off 36 was the glue of Fire’s chase, guiding them to 139 with 11 balls to spare. His calm presence, punctuated by a crucial six off Adam Milne, showcased his class. Smith’s post-match comments highlighted his role: “My job was to take the game deep and be there at the end.”
Ben Kellaway’s Dream Debut
Nineteen-year-old Ben Kellaway stole hearts on his Hundred debut, taking 2-10 and holding two catches. His dismissal of Joe Clarke off the second ball sparked Fire’s dominance. As Ioan Dyer noted on X, Kellaway’s all-action performance was a highlight of the night.
A Personal Connection to The Hundred
My First Taste of The Hundred’s Magic
I’ll never forget my first Hundred match in 2021 at Sophia Gardens, watching Welsh Fire take on Manchester Originals. The music, the crowd’s roar, and the sheer speed of the game hooked me instantly. August 22, 2025, at Edgbaston felt like a throwback to that thrill, with Welsh Fire’s men and women delivering a night of pure drama. It’s the kind of experience that makes you fall in love with cricket all over again.
The Emotional Highs and Lows
For Fire fans, the double win was a cathartic release after a tough season. Watching Jonassen’s sixes sail into the stands and Smith’s cool-headed finish brought back memories of cheering underdog victories. For Phoenix supporters, Perry’s lone fight and Bethell’s promise offered glimmers of hope amidst the heartbreak.
How to Follow The Hundred: Scores, Updates, and Highlights
Where to Catch Live Scores and Updates
Staying updated on The Hundred is a breeze with these platforms:
- BBC Sport: Live text commentary, scores, and radio coverage for matches like Fire vs. Phoenix.
- Sky Sports: Live streams, highlights, and analysis, covering both men’s and women’s games.
- The Hundred Website: Official scorecards, player stats, and match reports.
- ESPNcricinfo: Detailed ball-by-ball updates and post-match breakdowns.
Best Platforms for Free Highlights
Missed the action? Free highlights are widely available:
- BBC Sport YouTube: Clips of key moments, like Jonassen’s sixes and Smith’s 47 not out.
- Sky Sports Website: Condensed match recaps for UK viewers.
- The Hundred App: Free highlight reels and player interviews, perfect for on-the-go fans.
Top Tools for Fans
- The Hundred App: Live scores, ticket info, and exclusive content.
- Cricbuzz: In-depth stats, player rankings, and match previews.
- X: Follow @thehundred and @Ioan_Dyer for real-time updates and fan reactions.
| Platform | Live Scores | Free Highlights | Streaming | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BBC Sport | Yes | Yes | No | Budget-conscious fans |
| Sky Sports | Yes | Yes | Yes | UK viewers, streaming |
| ESPNcricinfo | Yes | No | No | Stats enthusiasts |
| The Hundred App | Yes | Yes | No | Mobile-first fans |
Comparing Welsh Fire and Birmingham Phoenix in 2025
Women’s Team Performance
Welsh Fire’s women turned their season around with a disciplined display, leveraging Dunkley’s consistency and Jonassen’s firepower. Birmingham Phoenix, despite Perry’s heroics, struggled with early collapses and lacked batting depth, finishing with four losses in six games.
Men’s Team Performance
Fire’s men showed composure, with Smith and Bairstow outshining Phoenix’s inconsistent lineup. Phoenix’s reliance on Bethell and Liam Livingstone couldn’t compensate for their bowling woes, as Fire’s spinners Green and Kellaway dominated. Both teams remain long shots for the playoffs, sitting on eight points.
| Aspect | Welsh Fire Women | Birmingham Phoenix Women | Welsh Fire Men | Birmingham Phoenix Men |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Key Batter | Dunkley (53) | Perry (55) | Smith (47*) | Bethell (38) |
| Key Bowler | Ismail (3-16) | Schutt (2-11) | Green (3-27) | Milne (N/A) |
| Result | Won by 36 runs | Lost by 36 runs | Won by 8 wickets | Lost by 8 wickets |
| Playoff Chances | Eliminated | Eliminated | Slim | Slim |
Pros and Cons of Following The Hundred
Pros
- Fast-Paced Action: 100 balls mean non-stop excitement, perfect for new fans.
- Accessible Coverage: Free highlights on BBC and Sky Sports, plus live updates on X.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: Edgbaston’s electric vibe, with music and fireworks, enhances the experience.
- Affordable Tickets: Junior tickets start at £5, with adult prices from £14.
Cons
- Playoff Pressure: Both Fire and Phoenix face slim knockout chances, frustrating fans.
- Streaming Costs: Full matches require Sky Sports or NOW subscriptions.
- Weather Risks: Birmingham’s 10% rain chance on August 22 could disrupt games.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Who won the Welsh Fire vs. Birmingham Phoenix match in The Hundred 2025?
Welsh Fire’s women won by 36 runs, posting 150-3 to Phoenix’s 114-9. The men’s team secured an eight-wicket victory, chasing 139 with 11 balls to spare.
Where can I watch The Hundred 2025 highlights?
Free highlights are available on BBC Sport’s YouTube channel, Sky Sports’ website, and The Hundred app. Clips of Jonassen’s sixes and Smith’s 47 not out are widely shared.
What is the format of The Hundred?
The Hundred features 100-ball innings, with five or ten-ball sets instead of traditional overs. The powerplay lasts 25 balls, with only two fielders outside the circle.
How can I buy tickets for The Hundred at Edgbaston?
Tickets are available via thehundred.com or edgbaston.com, starting at £5 for juniors and £14 for adults. B5 White Ball Memberships offer access to all Phoenix games.
The Emotional Impact of Welsh Fire’s Wins
A Fan’s Perspective
As a cricket fan, there’s nothing like the rush of an underdog victory. Watching Welsh Fire’s women finally break through after five losses felt like a weight lifted. Jonassen’s four sixes were a punch-the-air moment, while Smith’s steady hand in the men’s chase reminded me why I love this game—it’s as much about heart as it is about skill.
The Heartbreak for Phoenix Fans
For Birmingham Phoenix supporters, the double loss was a gut punch. Posts on X, like @peterwhite_1’s, captured the frustration, calling the men’s performance a “shocker.” Yet, Perry’s 55 and Bethell’s 38 offered hope for a brighter 2026.
Best Tools for Following The Hundred
Apps for Live Updates
- The Hundred App: Live scores, highlights, and ticket purchasing.
- Sky Sports App: Streams, scores, and player interviews for subscribers.
- Cricbuzz: Ball-by-ball updates and detailed stats.
Websites for In-Depth Coverage
- BBC Sport: Match reports, live text, and free highlights.
- Sky Sports: Streaming and analysis for UK fans.
- ESPNcricinfo: Stats, previews, and historical context.
Social Media for Fan Engagement
X is a hub for real-time reactions. Follow @thehundred for official updates or @Ioan_Dyer for passionate fan insights, like Kellaway’s debut heroics. Posts on August 22, 2025, buzzed with excitement over Fire’s double win.
The Future of Welsh Fire and Birmingham Phoenix
Welsh Fire’s Playoff Push
Despite their men’s win, Welsh Fire remain eight points behind third-placed Northern Superchargers with two games left. The women, already eliminated, can build on this momentum for 2026, with Dunkley and Jonassen as cornerstones.
Birmingham Phoenix’s Rebuild
Phoenix’s men and women face an uphill battle for playoffs, needing wins and favorable results. Their reliance on Perry and Bethell highlights a need for depth. As Edgbaston gears up for 2026, their B5 Membership offers fans early ticket access.
FAQ
How did Welsh Fire win against Birmingham Phoenix?
The women posted 150-3, led by Dunkley’s 53 and Jonassen’s 44, and bowled out Phoenix for 114-9. The men chased 139 with eight wickets, thanks to Smith’s 47 not out and Eskinazi’s 42.
Where can I find The Hundred 2025 live scores?
Check BBC Sport, Sky Sports, ESPNcricinfo, or The Hundred app for live scores and commentary. X accounts like @thehundred provide real-time updates.
Who were the standout players at Edgbaston?
Jess Jonassen (44 and 3-24) and Sophia Dunkley (53) shone for Fire’s women, while Steve Smith (47*) and Ben Kellaway (2-10) starred for the men.
Can I watch The Hundred for free?
Free highlights are on BBC Sport, Sky Sports, and The Hundred’s YouTube channel. Live streams require Sky Sports or NOW subscriptions.
What are the playoff chances for Welsh Fire and Phoenix?
Fire’s men have a slim chance, needing two wins and help from other results. Both women’s teams are eliminated. Phoenix’s men also face long odds.
Why Welsh Fire’s Wins Matter
Welsh Fire’s double victory at Edgbaston on August 22, 2025, was more than a stat line—it was a testament to resilience. From Jonassen’s six-hitting spree to Kellaway’s dream debut, the night captured The Hundred’s essence: fast, unpredictable, and deeply emotional. Whether you’re catching highlights on BBC Sport, streaming on Sky Sports, or joining the X buzz, this match showed