Stephen Eskinazi hit a blistering 43 from 18 balls as Welsh Fire thrashed Birmingham Phoenix by six wickets with 15 balls to spare in the 14th match of The Hundred Men’s competition on Thursday.
After Birmingham Phoenix posted a modest 112 for 7, Eskinazi took the attack to the bowlers from the outset, hitting 6 fours and 2 sixes in his whirlwind innings. He put on a 67-run crucial partnership for the first wicket with Jacob Clarke (16).
A comfortable win for Welsh Fire against Birmingham Phoenix.#vanderMerwe #HarisRauf #DavidPayne #StephenEskinazi #DavidWilley #TomAbell #WelshFire #BirminghamPhoenix #Hundred #TheHundred #Cricket #SBM pic.twitter.com/LxmDtdKTVq
— SBM Cricket (@Sbettingmarkets) August 11, 2023
Eskinazi’s knock was the highlight of a fine all-round performance from Fire, who also bowled well to restrict Phoenix to 112. David Payne (2 for 11), Roelof van der Merwe (2 for 16) and Haris Rauf (2 for 20) all took two wickets apiece, while Roelof van der Merwe also took a fine catch to dismiss Moeen Ali.
The win moves Fire up to third in the men’s table, while Phoenix remain winless after four matches.
Eskinazi’s innings was a masterclass in power hitting
The innings by Stephen Eskinazi was a masterclass in power-hitting. He hit the ball cleanly and with great timing, and he never seemed to be in any trouble. He was particularly effective against the spinners. His innings was a reminder of his potential as a white-ball batsman. He has been in good form for Middlesex in recent years, and he is now starting to show his class at the highest level.
Fire’s bowling attack was also impressive
Fire’s bowling attack was also impressive. Payne, van der Merwe and Rauf all bowled well, and they were able to restrict Phoenix to a below-par total.
Not a conventional way to take a catch, but Roelof van der Merwe and Welsh Fire won't mind! 🤣#TheHundred pic.twitter.com/58hfm2PyzH
— The Hundred (@thehundred) August 10, 2023
Van der Merwe’s catch to dismiss Moeen Ali was also a highlight. It was a brilliant piece of fielding, and it helped to turn the game in Fire’s favour.
The win was a confidence boost for Fire
The win was a confidence boost for Fire. They have been inconsistent so far this season, but they showed on Thursday that they are capable of beating the best teams in the competition.
They will be looking to build on this performance and continue their climb up the table.
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