The Trent Rockets have clinched a berth in the knockout phase of the women's Hundred tournament after delivering a dominant performance against MI London, a side already out of contention. The Rockets chased down a target of 122 runs with nine wickets in hand, wrapping up the chase with 18 balls remaining and marking their fifth consecutive victory in the competition. Key to the win were two brilliant half-centuries. Nat Sciver-Brunt smashed an unbeaten 67 off just 36 deliveries, while teammate Beth Mooney contributed an unbeaten 54 from 44 balls.
Their partnership of 118 runs not only steered the Rockets comfortably to the finish line but also etched its name as the second‑largest stand ever recorded in the women's Hundred. The match began with MI London batting first. Australian left‑arm spinner Sam Bates made an immediate impact, picking up three wickets for just 13 runs and moving into a joint‑lead position on the tournament’s wicket‑taking leaderboard. London’s innings started relatively steady, reaching 28 runs without loss, but the momentum quickly shifted when Bates dismissed the explosive Hayley Matthews for ten runs, trapping her leg‑before‑wicket.
This breakthrough set the tone for the rest of the innings. Further wickets fell in quick succession.
Hollie Armitage was dismissed for a modest four runs by Charley Phillips, and Bates struck twice in a row, removing Kira Chathli (who had made 31 off 27 balls) lbw and then effecting a clever stumping of Nicola Carey off Mooney’s delivery. At that point, MI London found themselves reeling at 49 for 4. A review by the fielding side prevented a potential hat‑trick when Alice Monaghan was given out, but the damage had already been done.
Monaghan, however, fought back with a quickfire 27 not out off 21 balls, and Melie Kerr added 17 runs from 14 deliveries, helping the hosts to rebuild. Later, Chinelle Henry contributed another 27 runs off 21 balls, peppering the innings with a flurry of boundaries. Despite these efforts, the total of 121‑5 fell well short of what would be required on a batting‑friendly surface against a Rockets side that was firing on all cylinders. When it was the Rockets’ turn to bat, the chase was almost routine.
Although Sophia Dunkley was dismissed for a golden‑duck, the foundation laid by Sciver‑Brunt and Mooney proved unshakeable. Their 118‑run partnership not only set up the win but also highlighted the depth of talent within the Rockets lineup, reinforcing their reputation as one of the tournament’s most potent batting units. Beyond the headline figures, the match showcased several notable performances. Sam Bates’ three‑for‑13 spell was a standout, demonstrating his ability to swing the ball and apply pressure in crucial moments.
Meanwhile, the fielding unit, led by Mooney’s sharp stumping, displayed agility and anticipation that turned potential runs into wickets. The victory propels the Rockets firmly into the knockout bracket, where they will look to continue their winning streak. Their consistency over the past five games underscores a blend of experienced internationals and emerging talent, all contributing to a balanced and dynamic side.
In related tournament news, the Manchester Super Giants kept their elimination hopes alive with a narrow 27‑run win over Southern Brave, thanks in part to a powerful 54‑run knock from India’s Richa Ghosh and a supportive 46 from fellow Indian star Smriti Mandhana. Meanwhile, at Headingley and Lord’s, the schedule remains packed with four matches on the day, featuring both men’s and women’s fixtures as teams vie for final‑stage positioning. Fans can continue to follow all action, including live streams and updates, via the NOW platform and Sky Sports channels, with additional content and analysis available through Sky Sports’ WhatsApp service. The tournament will culminate with the finals on Sunday, August 16, promising more thrilling cricket as the remaining teams battle for the coveted Hundred title.