MI London kicked off their quest for a fourth straight Hundred crown with a dominant seven‑wicket win over SunRisers Leeds at The Kia Oval, signalling a fresh start for a competition that has undergone a visual makeover thanks to substantial overseas investment. Formerly known as the Oval Invincibles, MI London retained the core of their winning formula while embracing new branding and kit designs. Chasing a target of 144 runs, the defending champions faced early setbacks when both Will Jacks and Jason Roy fell cheaply. However, the tide turned dramatically when Sam Curran, who smashed 60 runs off just 39 balls, joined forces with the explosive Nicholas Pooran, who contributed 58 runs from a mere 22 deliveries.
Their partnership of 93 runs for the fourth wicket proved decisive, allowing MI London to cruise to victory with 16 balls still remaining in the innings. SunRisers Leeds had posted 143 runs from their allotted 99 balls, a total built around a quick‑fire display from Mitchell Marsh (41 off 27) and Ryan Rickelton (25 off 16). The duo set a brisk pace, with Rickelton launching three sixes and adding a solid 40‑run opening stand. Their momentum was halted when Sam Curran delivered a textbook slower‑ball dismissal, trapping Rickelton lbw.
England white‑ball captain Harry Brook, who replaced the dismissed player, survived only seven balls before Rashid Khan claimed his wicket, edging a catch after a powerful six off Nathan Sowter. Marsh attempted to steady the innings, hitting three fours and three sixes, but the Curran brothers—Sam and his sibling—applied relentless pressure. Sam’s slower ball to Tom forced a mis‑hit that was caught at cover, ending Marsh’s contribution. With Zak Crawley (13 off 11) unable to accelerate the scoring, Tom Alsop stepped in, delivering a rapid 31 off 18 balls that helped the SunRisers reach a respectable total.
The final wicket fell when Richard Gleeson dismissed Nathan Ellis with just one ball left, sealing the SunRisers' innings. In response, MI London’s opening bowler Brydon Carse made an immediate impact, removing Jacks and Roy with his sixth and eighth deliveries, respectively, creating early wobble in the chase.
James Vince, however, fell to a delivery from Nathan Ellis, leaving the side in need of stability. It was at this juncture that Pooran and Curran forged a blistering 50‑run partnership in just 23 balls.
Curran reached his half‑century in 34 balls, while Pooran arrived at his fifty in a swift 19 balls. Together they struck ten fours and eight sixes, effectively sealing the win with ample runs left in hand. Post‑match, MI London captain Sam Curran reflected on his role, noting, "I spent some time last year working on my game, and my experience captaining Surrey in the Blast and the ILT20 has helped. I feel I can read the match situation well, both while batting and bowling.
There are many great minds in the dressing room, and it’s encouraging to start the tournament on a high note." Nicholas Pooran, hailed as the Meerkat Match Hero, added, "I did exactly what was required. We stayed positive, focused on hitting boundaries, and aimed to build a partnership that would see us through.
Scoring gives confidence, but winning is what matters most, and I’m pleased we began our campaign with a home victory." The double‑header on Wednesday featured the Utilita Bowl in Southampton, where Southern Brave faced Welsh Fire. The women's fixture began at 2:45 pm, followed by the men's match at 6:30 pm, both broadcast live on Sky Sports.
The Hundred continues to evolve, with new squads for 2026 announced and the latest tables reflecting the shifting dynamics of the league. Fans are encouraged to follow Sky Sports on WhatsApp for up‑to‑date news, videos, analyses, and more, while streaming options remain available through NOW for those who wish to keep up with every thrilling moment of the competition.