Oval Invincibles Women vs Birmingham Phoenix Women Prediction: Oval looking to extend record against Birmingham

Oval Invincibles Women and Birmingham Phoenix Women are going head to head in the First Game of The Hundred Women at The Oval, United Kingdom, United Kingdom on 23rd July 2024. Oval will be looking to extend an impressive record against Phoenix. Who will win this game of cricket?

Last season was disappointing for the Oval Invincibles Women, who placed fifth on the leaderboard with only 7 points and missed the playoff cut. They secured just three victories and are eager to kick off this season on a high note. Marizanne Kapp, a South African all-rounder, was the standout player for the team. She amassed 147 runs across 7 innings, maintaining an average of 29.40 and a strike rate of 123. Additionally, Kapp was the team's top bowler, with 11 wickets and an impressive economy rate of 5.91. Her performance will be crucial for the Invincibles again this year.

Alice Capsey is another player poised to excel in the upcoming matches. As Oval's second-most prolific scorer historically, she has tallied 380 runs in 21 innings with a strike rate of 131.

On the bowling front, while Kapp remains key, attention should also be given to Sophia Smale and Paige Scholfield. Last season, Smale claimed 5 wickets at an economy of 7.20, and Scholfield captured 8 wickets at an economy of 8.15. Both will play vital roles in propelling the Oval Invincibles' ambitions for success.

Lauren Winfield-Hill (c & wk), Laura Harris, Georgie Boyce, Alice Capsey, Marizanne Kapp, Paige Scholfield, Joanne Gardner, Lizzie Scott, Mady Villiers, Ryana Macdonald Gay, Eva Gray, Sophia Smale

In 2023, Birmingham Phoenix Women ended up at the bottom of the standings, failing to secure a single victory throughout the season. Their final defeat was a 73-run loss to London Spirit Women. Despite their challenges, the team includes talented players capable of making a comeback. Among them is Ellyse Perry, who will captain the team this season. Returning after a year out due to injury, Perry brings nearly 17 years of experience and has over 6,000 runs and 300 wickets in international cricket. Her leadership and all-round capabilities are key strengths for Birmingham Phoenix.

Amy Jones has consistently been a reliable performer for the team, leading their batting efforts with a total of 465 runs in 21 matches, and a strike rate of 137. Last season, she scored 163 runs across seven innings, maintaining a strike rate of 129. Additionally, Sophie Devine was the top scorer for the team last season, amassing 191 runs in seven innings with a strike rate of 132.63.

The bowling attack will be spearheaded by Katie Levick, who took 11 wickets in seven innings last season at an economy rate of 6.81, and Emily Arlott, who claimed 7 wickets at an economy of 7.86. However, the team's bowling lineup appears to be less robust on paper, indicating that the batsmen might have to bear the brunt of the scorekeeping.

Sophie Devine, Ellyse Perry (c), Fran Wilson, Amy Jones (wk), Suzie Bates, Sterre Kalis, Chloe Brewer, Issy Wong, Emily Arlott, Katie Levick, Charis Pavely

Oval Invincibles have consistently outperformed Birmingham Phoenix, winning all of their past meetings. This series of victories likely provides them with a mental edge as they approach their next game. Although Birmingham Phoenix has a potent batting line, their bowling performance has been lacklustre. Playing at their home ground may also give the Oval Invincibles an additional advantage. If Ellyse Perry excels in her leadership role, she might potentially galvanize Birmingham to achieve a remarkable performance. Nonetheless, considering their impressive history and overall capabilities, Oval Invincibles are the predicted favourites to win this encounter. We support the Oval Invincibles to emerge victorious in this matchup.