Brave Defeats Phoenix in Super Five to Reach Hundred Final

Southern Brave secured a spot in The Hundred final after a thrilling Eliminator against Birmingham Phoenix, which marked the first Super Five in the tournament’s history. This is prepared by SSP.

Liam Livingstone propelled Phoenix to victory within reach during regulation time. He hit a fierce half-century but fell short with three runs needed. Brave's spinner, Akeal Hosein, stepped up and conceded only two runs from the last three balls, resulting in a tie.

In the Super Five, Jofra Archer caught Livingstone on the very first ball, limiting Phoenix to just seven runs in the extra five deliveries. A timely boundary from Chris Jordan enabled Brave to cross the finish line with a ball remaining, leading to a final showdown against the defending champions, Oval Invincibles, at Lord's on Sunday evening.

Initially, this final appearance seemed distant when Livingstone hit a no-ball from Hosein for six, leaving three runs required with four balls remaining. However, he failed to connect with the following free hit and was caught on the next delivery, granting Brave a lifeline, which they seized to reach their first final since winning the inaugural tournament in 2021.

James Vince scored 43 runs, bringing his total to 400 for the tournament this year, helping Brave to 126-6. Despite a bowler-friendly pitch, Phoenix appeared stronger at the halfway mark, showcasing impressive bowling led by Adam Milne’s 3-18.

However, the Brave bowlers then made their mark, putting Phoenix under pressure at 45-3 midway through their chase. A notable turning point was when Livingstone was dropped on seven by Leus du Plooy, igniting the England all-rounder’s performance.

Though Livingstone hammered four sixes in a near match-winning innings, he couldn't secure the victory. Brave maintained their composure and will now vie for their second Men's Hundred title.