Steven Smith Anchors Welsh Fire Chase with 47 Not Out in The Hundred 2025
Steven Smith anchors Welsh Fire chase in a crucial victory over Birmingham Phoenix, dealing a major blow to Phoenix’s play-off chances in The Hundred 2025. The Australian star’s unbeaten 47 guided Fire to an eight-wicket win at Edgbaston, achieved with 11 balls to spare.
Steven Smith Anchors Welsh Fire Chase with Eskinazi and Bairstow Support
The chase of 139 was managed with confidence as Steven Smith anchored Welsh Fire chase after early fireworks. Steve Eskinazi struck 42 from 29 balls to break the back of the target, while Jonny Bairstow added a brisk 35 from 21 deliveries. Although Bairstow was bowled by Adam Milne after hitting a huge six, Smith ensured calmness with his 36-ball knock. Skipper Tom Abell joined him to complete the win, giving Fire their second victory of the season.
Phoenix Batting Falters Despite Bethell’s Efforts
Birmingham Phoenix struggled for rhythm with the bat. Early wickets disrupted their momentum, and although Will Smeed (23), Joe Clarke (24), and Liam Livingstone (16) provided quick runs, none converted starts into substantial scores. Jacob Bethell’s fluent 38 from 28 balls, including three sixes, was the lone highlight. However, Phoenix ended on 138 for 9, a total that always looked below par.
Chris Green and Ben Kellaway Shine for Fire
The bowling attack from Fire proved decisive. Chris Green delivered an excellent spell, claiming 3 for 27, including the key wicket of Bethell in the final overs. On his Hundred debut, Ben Kellaway impressed with 2 for 10 from just 15 balls, while also taking three catches and effecting a run-out. His all-round contribution ensured Phoenix never built momentum.
Play-off Hopes Fading for Birmingham Phoenix
With this result, Birmingham Phoenix’s play-off hopes suffered a severe blow. Remaining fifth in the table, they now face an uphill battle to secure a spot in the Eliminator. Meanwhile, Steven Smith anchors Welsh Fire chase to move the side to seventh place, still mathematically alive in the competition but requiring more wins.
Conclusion: Steven Smith Anchors Welsh Fire Chase in Style
The match will be remembered as the night when Steven Smith anchored Welsh Fire chase to perfection, ending his lean run in The Hundred. With Eskinazi, Bairstow, and Kellaway contributing strongly, Fire claimed a vital win, while Phoenix must regroup quickly to stay in contention.
