It’s time for another exciting face-off as Welsh Fire Women meet Manchester Originals Women in match no. 12 of The Hundred 2025. With both teams boasting match-winners across departments, fans can expect a fiery contest.
The two sides crossed paths once previous season, with Welsh Fire emerging victorious in that encounter, stamping their authority with a confident all-round performance. The Originals will be determined to turn the tables this time and keep their campaign on track, while the Fire will be eager to win against their opponents and strengthen their position on the points table.
Squads:
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
Manchester Originals Women’s Cricket Team
Beth Mooney (C), Sophie Ecclestone, Amelia Kerr, Deandra Dottin, Seren Smale, Lauren Filer, Evelyn Jones, Mahika Gaur, Fi Morris, Kathryn Bryce, Amuruthaa Surenkumar, Danielle Gregory, Alice Monaghan, Esmae MacGregor, Darcey Carter
Players to watch out:
Sophia Dunkley
At the top, Welsh Fire’s batting lies Sophia Dunkley, whose fluent 36 off 29 against London Spirit was a timely reminder of her ability to control an innings. Since joining the Fire in 2023, Dunkley has scored 451 runs, including the highest of 69*, an unbeaten masterclass that remains one of her standout performances. Her calm head under pressure, coupled with her power-hitting in the later overs, makes her an invaluable top-order batter who can adapt to any match situation.
Freya Davies
Even in defeat, Freya Davies managed to steal the spotlight with a brilliant spell of 3/16 against London Spirit, showcasing her knack for making things happen with the ball. The right-arm pacer has been a vital part of Welsh Fire’s bowling attack since 2023, collecting 22 wickets so far. Her ability to hit consistent lengths, generate movement off the pitch, and keep scoring rates in check makes her a dangerous option in both the powerplay and death overs. She continues to be a match-turning asset for the Fire.
Beth Mooney
Leading from the front, Beth Mooney remains the rock of Manchester Originals’ batting lineup. Her 26 in the previous match once again highlighted her consistency and ability to anchor the innings, even when wickets fell around her. Since 2024, Mooney has scored 288 runs for the Originals, combining precision strokeplay with the temperament needed in tight contests. As a captain and a world-class top-order batter, she not only sets the tone for her team’s innings but also provides the stability needed to launch in the final overs.
Amelia Kerr
A proven performer on the world stage, Amelia Kerr has brought her all-round versatility to Manchester Originals this season. With 4 wickets already to her name, including a best of 2/17, Kerr’s leg-spin has proved difficult to handle for opposition batters, especially in the middle overs. Add to that her sharp cricketing brain and handy batting skills, and she becomes a genuine double threat.
Pitch:
The surface at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff typically offers a balanced contest between bat and ball. Batters who take their time to settle can score freely, while bowlers, especially those hitting the right lengths can extract movement and keep things in check. Expect a game where patience and skill in both departments will be equally rewarded.
Weather:
It’ll be a warm day in Cardiff with the temperature at 27°C, 60% humidity, and mostly cloudy skies. With just a 10% chance of precipitation, rain interruptions are unlikely, but the overhead conditions could aid the seamers in the early stages.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Hayley Matthews, Jess Jonassen, Amelia Kerr, Beth Mooney, Sophia Dunkley, Deandra Dottin, Sophie Ecclestone, Tammy Beaumont, Freya Davies, Kathryn Bryce, Shabnim Ismail
Match Details:
Date – August 13, 2025
Time – 7:30 PM IST
Venue – Sophia Gardens, Cardiff
Broadcast – The game will be live streamed on FanCode and telecasted on Sony Sports Network.
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