Star batter Smriti Mandhana made a promising start to her innings upon returning to the Hundred Women's competition. Batting for the Southern Brave against Birmingham Phoenix, she began with a powerful boundary off Sophie Devine.
Smriti Mandhana's Promising Start Cut Short
Mandhana continued her aggressive approach, hitting a four through the off side against leg-spinner Katie Levick. However, her innings was cut short by the brilliance of Ellyse Perry. Despite an initial not out decision from the umpire, Perry's dismissal proved crucial for the Birmingham Phoenix.
Mandhana's Dismissal and Perry's Dominance
The on-field umpires initially deemed the appeal for a caught behind against Smriti Mandhana not out. However, the Birmingham Phoenix opted for a DRS review, which revealed that Mandhana's bat had made contact with the ground before the ball carried to the wicketkeeper. The decision was overturned, resulting in Mandhana's dismissal for 15 runs.
Ellyse Perry capitalised on this breakthrough, running through the Southern Brave batting order. She claimed the wickets of Maia Bouchier and Georgia Adams, finishing with impressive figures of 3 for 21. Perry's outstanding spell propelled the Birmingham Phoenix to a 16-run victory.
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Richa Ghosh's struggles and Phoenix victory
Richa Ghosh also faced difficulties during her innings for the Birmingham Phoenix. After hitting a boundary off Freya Kemp, she was dismissed by Lauren Cheatle while attempting a big shot. Ghosh's wicket proved crucial as the Phoenix restricted the Southern Brave to 137 for seven. Birmingham Phoenix emerged victorious by 16 runs, with Amy Jones being named Player of the Match for her all-round performance of 51 runs and six catches.
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