Rehan Ahmed’s Stunning Performance Leads Rockets to Victory
England’s young star Rehan Ahmed delivered a match-winning all-round display as Trent Rockets triumphed over Northern Superchargers by five wickets in a thrilling encounter. The Rockets maintained their unbeaten run in The Hundred, thanks to Ahmed’s brilliance with both bat and ball. His contributions were pivotal in a game that saw momentum swing back and forth before the Rockets clinched victory with four balls to spare.
Rehan Ahmed Shines with Bat and Ball
Ahmed, just 20 years old, played a decisive role in securing the win for Trent Rockets. First, his sharp bowling restricted the Superchargers to a modest total of 124-9 in their 100-ball innings. Finishing with impressive figures of 2-23, he dismantled the opposition’s middle order, including the crucial wicket of Dan Lawrence, who was bowled without reaching double figures.
Later, when the Rockets’ chase stuttered, Ahmed stepped up with the bat. Coming in at a tense moment, he smashed 31 runs off 26 balls, forming a vital 31-run partnership with Tom Alsop that shifted the game in Trent Rockets’ favor. Though both fell to the Superchargers’ spinners, Ahmed’s composure ensured the Rockets were well on their way to victory. Marcus Stoinis and Adam Hose finished the job, securing the win with four deliveries remaining.
A Chase of Twists and Turns
Trent Rockets started strongly, with openers Tom Banton (37) and Joe Root (20) building a solid foundation with a 57-run stand. However, the Superchargers spinners, led by Imad Wasim (3-19) and Adil Rashid, triggered a mini-collapse. Wasim removed both openers in quick succession, while Rashid accounted for Max Holden, leaving the Rockets at 83-3 and needing 41 off 30 balls.
Ahmed’s counterattack revitalized the chase, but wickets continued to fall before Stoinis and Hose ensured there were no last-minute hiccups. The Rockets’ depth and resilience ultimately proved too much for the Superchargers.
Northern Superchargers’ Struggles Continue
The Superchargers’ innings never got going, collapsing to 18-3 in the powerplay after Akeal Hosein’s double strike removed Dawid Malan and Zak Crawley early. Only Harry Brook (45 off 30) and Graham Clark (36 off 22) provided resistance, stitching together a 56-run partnership to give their side a fighting chance. But once Brook fell to Stoinis, the lower order crumbled, with Ahmed and Lockie Ferguson cleaning up the tail. A late cameo from Mohammad Amir (11) pushed them past 120, but it wasn’t enough to challenge the Rockets.
Southern Brave Dominate Birmingham Phoenix
In another Hundred clash, Southern Brave outclassed Birmingham Phoenix by nine wickets, with Jofra Archer and Michael Bracewell dismantling the Phoenix batting lineup. Archer’s 2-16 and Bracewell’s 3-10 restricted Phoenix to a paltry 106-7, despite Joe Clarke’s 36 and Ben Duckett’s 20.
The Brave chased down the target with ease, led by Leus du Plooy’s unbeaten 48 and James Vince’s 41. Jason Roy added the finishing touches with 18* as Brave sealed victory with 19 balls remaining, moving to the top of the table.
What’s Next in The Hundred?
Defending champions London Spirit aim to extend their winning streak as they face Manchester Originals in the women’s contest at Old Trafford (15:00 BST), followed by the men’s match at 18:30 BST. Fans can catch all the action live on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra and the BBC Sport website and app.
Rehan Ahmed’s heroics have once again underlined his growing reputation as one of England’s most exciting young talents. If he continues this form, Trent Rockets could well be lifting The Hundred trophy come the end of the season.
