Southern Brave Women opened their account in the 2025 edition of The Hundred Women with a commanding win over Manchester Originals Women, thanks to a composed unbeaten 42* by Laura Wolvaardt and a fiery 3-wicket spell by Lauren Bell.
Batting first, Manchester Originals stumbled to a disappointing 95 for 8 despite a gritty knock of 40 off 34 balls* from Seren Smale. Smale stood tall amid the collapse, playing a lone hand after the Originals lost early wickets to disciplined bowling from the Brave.
Lauren Bell was the star with the ball for Southern Brave, delivering an impactful spell of 3 for 18 in her 20-ball quota. She dismissed key batters Kathryn Bryce, Amelia Kerr, and Fritha Morris, applying pressure that Manchester never recovered from. Bell’s spell was not only clinical but also crucial in derailing the Originals’ batting rhythm.
In reply, Southern Brave Women chased down the modest target of 96 with 11 balls to spare, finishing at 96 for 4. Danni Wyatt-Hodge set the tone with a fluent 32 off 27 balls, striking timely boundaries to ease the chase. She was eventually bowled by Sophie Ecclestone on the 50th delivery, but by then, Southern Brave were firmly in control.
At the other end, South African opener Laura Wolvaardt anchored the innings brilliantly with a match-winning 42 off 35 balls*, ensuring no late drama as she saw her side home with a calm and composed finish.
For her brilliant bowling display, Lauren Bell was deservedly named Player of the Match.
Match Summary: The Hundred Women’s 2025 – Southern Brave vs Manchester Originals
Sophie Ecclestone: 1/17 (20 balls)
Manchester Originals Women: 95/8 (100 balls)
Seren Smale: 40* (34)
Lauren Bell: 3/18 (20 balls)
Southern Brave Women: 99/2 (89 balls)
Laura Wolvaardt: 42* (35)
Danni Wyatt-Hodge: 32 (27)