In the 3rd match of The Hundred Women’s Competition held in Manchester on July 25, 2024, Welsh Fire emerged victorious against Manchester Originals by 7 wickets, thanks to a stellar performance by Sophia Dunkley.
Welsh Fire Triumph Over Manchester Originals in 3rd Match of the Women’s Hundred
Manchester Originals set a target of 114 runs, posting a total of 113/7 in their 100 balls. Laura Wolvaardt was the standout performer with the bat, scoring 37 off 27 balls, including four boundaries and one six. However, the Originals’ innings struggled for momentum after her dismissal. Contributions from Beth Mooney (19 off 24 balls) and Sophie Ecclestone (27* off 15 balls) helped in putting up a fighting total.
The Originals’ batting lineup faltered against the disciplined bowling of Welsh Fire. Jess Jonassen was the pick of the bowlers, taking 3 wickets for 17 runs in her 20 balls. Georgia Davis also impressed, claiming 2 wickets for 23 runs. Hayley Matthews and Freya Davies chipped in with a wicket each, restricting the Originals to a modest score.
Chasing 114, Welsh Fire got off to a solid start with Tammy Beaumont and Sophia Dunkley putting on a 65-run partnership for the first wicket. Beaumont scored 31 off 29 balls, including five boundaries, before being dismissed by Fi Morris. Dunkley, however, anchored the innings brilliantly, scoring an unbeaten 69 off 47 balls. Her innings was laced with nine fours and two sixes, maintaining a strike rate of 146.80.
Despite losing quick wickets of Hayley Matthews (1 off 3 balls) and Sarah Bryce (4 off 10 balls), Dunkley’s composed knock ensured Welsh Fire chased down the target comfortably. Jess Jonassen provided the finishing touch with 9* off 7 balls, as Welsh Fire reached 117/3 in 96 balls, winning the match with 4 balls to spare.
Sophie Ecclestone was the most successful bowler for Manchester Originals, taking 1 wicket for 28 runs in her 20 balls. Fi Morris also contributed with 2 wickets for 20 runs.
Sophia Dunkley was rightfully awarded the Player of the Match for her outstanding unbeaten 69, leading Welsh Fire to a convincing victory.
Also, see:
Australia to rest big stars for white-ball series against Pakistan
