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Cox, Jacks Lead Oval Invincibles to Commanding Win Over London Spirit, Put Final Berth in Sight
Oval Invincibles Close in on Direct Final Spot
Oval Invincibles took another massive step toward cementing their spot in The Hundred 2025 final with a convincing six-wicket win over cross-town rivals London Spirit at The Oval. Chasing 153, the Invincibles overhauled the target comfortably in just 78 deliveries, thanks to explosive batting from Jordan Cox (47 runs) and Will Jacks (45 runs).
This emphatic performance not only secured victory but also bolstered their already superior Net Run Rate (NRR) of +1.786, putting them miles ahead of fellow contenders — Trent Rockets (+0.441) and Northern Superchargers (+0.282). For the chasing teams, the equation is now simple yet daunting: they must win their last group matches and win big to have even a remote chance of dislodging the Invincibles from the top.
👉 Related Reading: Latest updates from The Hundred tournament
Spirit’s Innings: A Stuttering Effort Despite Late Fireworks
Strong Start but Middle Overs Collapse
Asked to bat first, London Spirit got off the mark with Jamie Smith hammering two early boundaries. David Warner provided stability as his partner unleashed attacking strokes. However, a flurry of quick breakthroughs between the 17th and 23rd ball stymied their momentum. Smith and Warner departed in successive overs, followed by Ollie Pope’s dismissal for a mere two runs, leaving Spirit struggling at three down inside 50 deliveries.
Williamson & Turner’s Struggles
The experienced duo of Kane Williamson and Ashton Turner attempted a recovery but struggled to break free from the disciplined Invincibles’ attack. Spinner Nathan Sowter spun a web of deception, dismissing both batters and tightening the screws.
Overton and Higgins Give Late Push
It wasn’t until Jamie Overton’s fiery 31 off 18 balls and Ryan Higgins’ 28 off 15 balls that the innings came alive. Their fearless 54-run partnership off just 28 balls dragged Spirit’s score to a respectable 152/7 in their allotted 100 balls. The final push gave the bowlers something to defend, but it was never going to be enough against the in-form Invincibles’ batting arsenal.
Brief Scores (First Innings):
London Spirit: 152/7 (Jamie Overton 31, Jamie Smith 28; Nathan Sowter 2-23, Tom Curran 2-27)
Invincibles’ Chase: Cox & Jacks Take Charge
Early Setback But Swift Recovery
The chase didn’t start smoothly for the hosts as Richard Gleeson struck off the very first ball, sending Tawanda Muyeye back. But any hopes Spirit had of building pressure quickly dissipated when Jordan Cox and Will Jacks counter-attacked with breathtaking stroke play.
Cox struck early boundaries, while Jacks showcased his power-hitting by punishing the likes of Luke Wood and Jamie Overton. The bowlers had no place to hide as the run chase raced ahead of the required rate.
Spin Brings Brief Joy for Spirit
London Spirit banked on spin to swing momentum back their way, but Jafer Chohan and Liam Dawson were taken apart. Jacks eventually mistimed a shot to give Dawson a wicket, while Sam Curran added rapid-fire sixes before being caught out by the same bowler in the next ball.
Cox looked set for a sparkling half-century before being bowled for 47, but by then, the match was long under Oval Invincibles’ control.
Ferreira’s Finishing Touch
With just a handful of runs needed, Donovan Ferreira ensured there was no late drama. His quickfire 24 off 9 balls, including two sixes and two boundaries, wrapped up the game with 22 balls still remaining.
Brief Scores (Second Innings):
Oval Invincibles: 153/4 in 78 balls (Jordan Cox 47, Will Jacks 45; Liam Dawson 2-30, Richard Gleeson 1-21)
Result: Oval Invincibles won by 6 wickets.
What This Means for the Tournament
With this win, Oval Invincibles look almost guaranteed a direct entry into The Hundred 2025 Final. Their consistency, batting depth, and superior NRR give them a massive edge over the chasing pack. Meanwhile, Trent Rockets and Northern Superchargers now face uphill tasks, needing massive victories in their final league games to even stay in contention for the top spot.
Cricket fans can expect some high-intensity action as the final group matches unfold, but all eyes are on the Invincibles, who have emerged as the team to beat this season.
For an analysis of Net Run Rate (NRR) and its importance in T20 cricket, you can check this ESPNcricinfo explainer.
