Welsh Fire delivered a commanding performance to secure a 36-run victory over Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred 2025, thanks to an outstanding all-round display from Jess Jonassen and a composed batting effort led by Sophia Dunkley.
Batting first, Welsh Fire posted 150/3 from their 100 balls, setting up a strong platform after an early wobble. Skipper Tammy Beaumont fell cheaply for just 2 off 6, but Dunkley anchored the innings with a fluent 53 off 43 balls, striking six boundaries and one maximum along the way.
Hayley Matthews added stability with an unbeaten 34 off 33, while Jess Jonassen provided the real momentum, smashing 44 off just 17 balls at a breathtaking strike rate of 258.82. Her late assault, featuring four consecutive sixes and three fours, ensured Fire finished on a commanding total.
Georgia Elwiss remained unbeaten alongside Matthews, while the Phoenix bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught, with Megan Schutt (2/11 from her 20 balls) standing out for her economical spell.
In reply, Birmingham Phoenix never looked comfortable in their chase of 151. Their innings stuttered right from the start as Emma Lamb (0 off 2) and Marie Kelly (0 off 2) both departed without scoring, leaving them reeling early at 5 for 2.
Georgia Voll briefly counterattacked with 29 off 18 balls, while Ellyse Perry fought valiantly with a captain’s knock of 55 from 43 balls, striking seven boundaries and a six. However, regular wickets around her meant Phoenix could never build momentum. Sterre Kalis contributed 15, but once Perry was dismissed at 108/7, the chase was all but over. Phoenix eventually limped to 114/9 from their full 100 balls.
The Fire’s bowling was relentless, led once again by Jonassen, who claimed 3/24 to cap off a memorable match. Shabnim Ismail’s fiery pace fetched her 3/16, while Hayley Matthews (3/21) ensured no respite for the Phoenix batters. Freya Davies and Katie Levick maintained the pressure with disciplined spells.
It was a complete performance from Welsh Fire, with Jonassen’s all-round brilliance — 44 runs off 17 balls and 3 wickets for 24 — earning her the Player of the Match award.
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