England’s versatile all‑rounder Nat Sciver‑Brunt delivered a masterclass cameo, smashing 32 runs off just 19 balls from the lower order to clinch the Trent Rockets’ spot in the Hundred final and extend their winning streak to seven matches. The Rockets, who were perched at the top of the league table, were chasing a modest target of 118 against Southern Brave. After a shaky start that saw them tumble to 10‑3 in the powerplay – the lowest score ever recorded at the start of a Hundred innings – the outcome remained uncertain even though a score of 27 would have mathematically secured a place in the final.
When Sciver‑Brunt walked to the crease at number seven, the scoreboard read 66‑5 with just 31 balls left in the innings. Her teammate Ash Gardner had already anchored the chase with a solid 37, but the pressure was mounting. Drawing on her extensive experience, Sciver‑Brunt steadied the ship, guiding the Rockets through the final overs with a blend of aggressive stroke‑play and calm composure.
Her innings featured a flurry of boundaries, including several sixes that shifted momentum back in the Rockets’ favour. The drama peaked when Sciver‑Brunt was run out while attempting a second‑run that would have sealed the victory outright.
Despite this setback, the Rockets managed to finish the chase with two deliveries to spare, securing a 117‑5 win over Southern Brave. Southern Brave’s total of 117‑5 had been built primarily by their top‑order batters.
Maia Bouchier contributed 38 runs, Lizelle Lee added 31, and Laura Woolvaardt chipped in 24, providing a respectable platform that ultimately fell short of the Rockets’ relentless pursuit. The loss does not end Brave’s campaign, however.
They have already booked a place in the eliminator, which will be contested at The Kia Oval on Friday. Their next opponent will be determined on Tuesday when third‑placed SunRisers Leeds take on fourth‑placed Manchester Super Giants at Emirates Old Trafford in the final group fixture.
Reflecting on the match, Sciver‑Brunt said, "I’m happy to be on the winning side. The wicket was a bit slow, and they bowled pretty well in the first half." She also explained the tactical reasoning behind her late‑order promotion: "It was a bit tactical and a bit injury management. We have got a lot of people in form and high on confidence.
We have balanced our side nicely and building up to Sunday we sort of know what we need to do." The Rockets’ victory not only guarantees a spot in the championship decider on Sunday, 16 August, but also underscores the depth and adaptability of their squad. Throughout the season, the team has demonstrated a knack for navigating pressure situations, often relying on senior players like Sciver‑Brunt to finish games strongly.
Their ability to recover from early setbacks, as shown by the low powerplay score, highlights a resilient mindset that will be crucial in the final. Fans can follow the action across multiple platforms. Sky Sports continues to provide live coverage, while NOW offers a contract‑free streaming option for every match leading up to the final. Additional content, including highlights, key moments, and expert analysis, is available through Sky Sports’ WhatsApp channel and the official Hundred website.
Looking ahead, the final will pit the Trent Rockets against the winner of the eliminator, setting the stage for a showdown that promises high‑octane cricket, strategic brilliance, and the chance for the Rockets to cap off a remarkable season with a championship title. The team’s balanced lineup, bolstered by seasoned internationals and emerging talent, suggests they are well‑equipped to handle the pressure and seize the trophy.