The Trent Rockets took an emphatic six-wicket win over the Birmingham Phoenix to get their The Hundred campaign off and running in style. The encounter unfolded at Edgbaston on Thursday, as the Rockets continued a brilliant start to life in The Hundred.
Trent Rockets’ success was largely due to their incredible bowling display. It was New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson that was the star of the show, taking three wickets for just 20 runs. He was the architect in wrapping up the Birmingham Phoenix innings for a paltry 122 runs. In reply, they lost six wickets in their 100 balls. Ferguson’s skill was evident as he pinned Aneurin Donald lbw with a brilliant in-swinging yorker, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
The Phoenix were given a tough start to their innings, with David Willey taking the wicket of Ben Duckett just three balls into the game. While the Phoenix batsmen put up some resistance, they found it difficult to put together significant partnerships. Ultimately, they left the Rockets a fairly paltry 123 needed for victory.
In reply, the Trent Rockets came out firing as Banton was destructive from the top of the order. Banton, who top-scored with a commanding 43 runs, led a strong partnership with team-mate Rehan Ahmed, which was pivotal on the day. The duo took their time building the partnership, with Ahmed smashing 25 runs from 16 balls. It was that partnership that kept the chase under the Rockets’ control.
The early loss of Joe Root for a mere six runs, bowled by Tim Southee, threatened to unravel the Rockets’ innings. Banton and Ahmed took the moment unequivocally to establish their claim and lead their team to a first win.
As the innings progressed, Adam Hose played a vital role by hitting a boundary that secured the win for the Trent Rockets with 22 balls to spare. The Rockets finished their innings at 123 runs for the loss of four wickets in just 78 balls, highlighting their dominance throughout the match.
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