Liam Livingstone Leads Birmingham Phoenix to Stunning Victory Over Oval Invincibles

A Chase Against the Odds

Birmingham Phoenix pulled off one of the most dramatic wins in The Hundred after captain Liam Livingstone delivered a sensational innings to defeat defending champions Oval Invincibles. Chasing a daunting 181, Phoenix — having lost their first two matches — looked in trouble, needing 61 runs from the final 24 balls with six wickets still in hand.

Livingstone’s Explosive Onslaught

Livingstone launched an extraordinary attack on Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid Khan, smashing 26 runs from just five balls — including three sixes and two fours. The assault not only shifted momentum but also placed Phoenix within striking distance.

With 22 required from the last 10 balls, Livingstone hit two more sixes off Tom Curran, bringing Phoenix to the brink. Despite Saqib Mahmood taking two wickets in two balls with just three runs left, Benny Howell struck a boundary before Livingstone finished the job. The skipper remained unbeaten on 69 from 27 balls, sealing the third-highest successful chase in tournament history with four wickets and two balls to spare.

A Fiery On-Field Exchange

The match carried extra tension when Curran celebrated pointedly after dismissing Jacob Bethell earlier in the innings. Livingstone revealed afterwards:

“He called me a fat slob, so I thought I’d make sure he went for a few at the death — and he did.”

Rashid Khan’s Record-Breaking Struggle

Rashid endured a night to forget, conceding 59 runs from 20 balls — the most expensive bowling figures in The Hundred’s history. The defeat ended the Invincibles’ unbeaten start to the season.

Invincibles’ Strong Start Falls Short

Earlier, Donovan Ferreira smashed 63 from 29 balls to set up the Invincibles’ total of 180-8, with support from opener Will Smeed, who scored 51 from 29 balls. However, Livingstone’s remarkable knock ensured the Phoenix completed a comeback to remember.

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FAQs

What was Birmingham Phoenix’s target in the match?

They were chasing 181 runs set by Oval Invincibles.

How many runs did Liam Livingstone score?

He scored 69 not out from 27 balls.

Who conceded the most runs in The Hundred’s history during this match?

Rashid Khan conceded 59 runs from 20 balls, the most expensive figures in the tournament.

What was significant about Phoenix’s win?

It was the third-highest successful run chase in The Hundred’s history.

Who top-scored for Oval Invincibles?

Donovan Ferreira top-scored with 63 from 29 balls.