All eyes turn to the last league clash of The Hundred (Women’s) 2025, as Southern Brave lock horns with Welsh Fire in a battle that carries contrasting storylines. The Brave have been unstoppable this season, dominating their way to the top of the points unbeaten throughout the tournament and entering the playoffs as title contenders. Their consistency, balance, and form make them the team to beat heading into the business end of the tournament.
For Welsh Fire, however, it’s been a season to forget. After scripting a remarkable run to the finals in 2024, they now find themselves languishing at the bottom of the table, unable to find the spark that made them such a force last year.
While Brave look to stamp their authority before the knockouts, Fire will be eager to salvage pride and remind of their fighting spirit. With one team aiming to keep momentum alive and the other desperate for a strong finish, this encounter promises drama, intensity, and the emotion of a season’s journey coming full circle.
Squads:
Southern Brave Women’s Cricket Team
Georgia Adams (C), Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Laura Wolvaardt, Lauren Bell, Maia Bouchier, Sophie Devine, Freya Kemp, Chloe Tryon, Mady Villiers, Josie Groves, Rhianna Southby, Tilly Corteen-Coleman, Phoebe Graham, Phoebe Turner, Amara Carr
Welsh Fire Women’s Cricket Team
Tammy Beaumont (C), Sophia Dunkley, Hayley Matthews, Jess Jonassen, Sarah Bryce, Shabnim Ismail, Freya Davies, Georgia Elwiss, Katie George, Georgia Davis, Katie Levick, Emily Windsor, Beth Langston, Charley Phillips, Alex Griffiths
Players to watch out:
Laura Wolvaardt
Reliable, elegant, and destructive when needed, Laura Wolvaardt has been a pillar at the top for Southern Brave. Her unbeaten 56* against London Spirit during a successful chase highlighted her calm temperament under pressure. Opening the innings, she has already piled up 199 runs this season, with the highest of 56*, providing the perfect start for her team more often than not. With her ability to anchor as well as accelerate, Wolvaardt remains a massive threat to any bowling attack.
Mady Villiers
Mady Villiers has quickly become a key weapon for the Brave in her debut season with the side. She impressed with figures of 3/38 against London Spirit, breaking crucial partnerships and showing her knack for striking at important moments. With 10 wickets already this season, her consistency and ability to apply pressure in the middle overs make her a bowler to watch out for. Villiers brings energy, accuracy, and aggression, which could play a decisive role in shaping the outcome of this contest.
Sophia Dunkley
A dynamic top-order batter, Sophia Dunkley continues to be one of Welsh Fire’s key contributors. In their clash against Trent Rockets, she scored a steady 26 at the top of the order, though it came in a losing cause. Since 2023, Dunkley has been a consistent performer, amassing 619 runs, with the highest score of 69*, underlining her ability to play match-defining knocks. If Welsh Fire are to finish their season on a high, Dunkley’s role at the top will be pivotal.
Freya Davies
For Welsh Fire, Freya Davies has been one of the standout performers with the ball since joining the side in 2023. Her recent spell of 3/26 against Trent Rockets showcased her control and wicket-taking ability, particularly in high-pressure situations. Over her stint with Welsh Fire, she has picked up a commendable 26 wickets, with her best figures being 3/16. A proven match-winner with the ball, Davies’ form will be crucial if the Fire are to challenge a strong Brave batting line-up.
Pitch:
The Rose Bowl in Southampton is known for offering a fair contest between bat and ball. The surface generally provides something for everyone, batters who spend time at the crease can build meaningful innings, while bowlers with discipline in line and length often reap rewards. Pacers may find early movement, and as the game progresses, spinners could come into play with the pitch gripping.
Weather:
The weather in Southampton could play a role in the clash. With the temperature around 17°C, conditions will be slightly cool, favoring the bowlers early on. There is a 40% chance of precipitation, which might bring interruptions or add movement for the pacers under overcast skies.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Sophia Dunkley, Hayley Matthews, Laura Wolvaardt, Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Tammy Beaumont, Sophie Devine, Mady Villiers, Jess Jonassen, Lauren Bell, Shabnim Ismail, Freya Davies
Match Details:
Date – August 28, 2025
Time – 7:30 PM IST
Venue – The Rose Bowl, Southampton
Broadcast – The game will be live streamed on FanCode and telecasted on Sony Sports Network.
