Oval Invincibles Women vs Welsh Fire Women – Match Preview (The Hundred 2025)

Date: Saturday, 16th August 2025
Venue: Kennington Oval, London
Start Time: 2:30 PM BST (14:30 GMT)
Match No.: 16
Tournament: The Hundred Women's 2025

Match Overview

The 16th match of The Hundred Women’s competition in 2025 sees Oval Invincibles Women take on Welsh Fire Women at the iconic Kennington Oval in London. This encounter promises to be a high-stakes clash in the context of the tournament. The Invincibles, currently placed fourth in the standings with 4 points from three games, are looking to build momentum after a recent win over the Birmingham Phoenix. The Fire, on the other hand, are at the bottom of the table with 0 points, having lost all their previous matches, and will be eager to secure their first victory of the season.

Team Form and Strengths

Oval Invincibles Women

• Recent Form: Won their last match against the Birmingham Phoenix by 22 runs, following a loss to the London Spirit and a draw with the Manchester Originals.
• Key Strengths:
  • Meg Lanning has been in fine form with the bat, anchoring the innings and providing valuable experience.
  • Alice Capsey adds explosive power to the middle order.
  • Marizanne Kapp is a consistent performer with the ball, capable of breaking partnerships and taking crucial wickets.
• Tactical Edge: The Invincibles have shown adaptability in different conditions and are known for their all-round strength.

Welsh Fire Women

• Recent Form: Lost both of their opening two matches – a heavy defeat to the Northern Superchargers and a narrow loss to the London Spirit.
• Key Strengths:
  • Hayley Matthews is a world-class all-rounder and the backbone of the Fire’s batting and bowling.
  • Jess Jonassen offers composure and experience with both bat and ball.
  • Shabnim Ismail is a potent fast bowler with the ability to trouble even the best batters.
• Tactical Edge: The Fire have a strong batting line-up but have struggled in the middle overs. If they can tighten their fielding and maintain control in the middle phase, they can be dangerous.

Head-to-Head

• 28/07/2024: Welsh Fire vs Oval Invincibles – Invincibles won by 6 wickets
• 06/08/2023: Oval Invincibles vs Welsh Fire – Fire won by 3 wickets
• 02/08/2021: Welsh Fire vs Oval Invincibles – Invincibles won

The teams have had a closely contested rivalry in recent years, with each side claiming a win. However, the Invincibles have historically held the upper hand in key moments.

Venue Conditions – Kennington Oval

• The Oval is a neutral and balanced venue, offering assistance to both batters and bowlers depending on the condition of the pitch.
• The pace-friendly surface could favor the Fire’s quicks, particularly Shabnim Ismail.
• The outfield is well-maintained, which could impact the amount of time the ball is in the air, potentially aiding the fielding side.

Key Players to Watch

Oval Invincibles Women

• Meg Lanning (Captain): The star performer and anchor of the batting lineup. Her tactical acumen and ability to score crucial runs under pressure will be vital.
• Marizanne Kapp: A consistent and aggressive bowler, Kapp will look to take early wickets and break partnerships.
• Alice Capsey: Adds firepower in the middle overs and can turn the game with a big innings.

Welsh Fire Women

• Hayley Matthews: A match-winner with both bat and ball. Her ability to contribute in all phases of the game makes her a key figure.
• Jess Jonassen: Provides balance with her batting and spin bowling.
• Shabnim Ismail: A dangerous fast bowler who can trouble openers and finishers alike.

Match Prediction & Betting Insights

• Odds:

  • Oval Invincibles Women to win: 1.64
  • Welsh Fire Women to win: 2.18

• Best Batter:

  • Meg Lanning for Oval Invincibles Women
  • Hayley Matthews for Welsh Fire Women

• Best Bowler:

  • Marizanne Kapp for Oval Invincibles Women
  • Shabnim Ismail for Welsh Fire Women

• Prediction:
  The Oval Invincibles are the slight favorites going into this match, given their recent form and head-to-head advantage. However, the Fire have a strong squad and could spring a surprise if they execute their plans effectively. A tight contest is expected, with the game likely to hinge on the middle overs and the ability of the key players to deliver under pressure.

Final Verdict

Oval Invincibles Women to Win (1.64)

While the Welsh Fire have the talent to challenge, the Invincibles' consistency and recent performance give them the edge in this crucial match. If Meg Lanning and Marizanne Kapp stay on top of their games, the Invincibles should take the win and move up the table.