Birmingham Phoenix vs Welsh Fire – The Hundred 2025 Match Preview (22 August 2025)

Date: 22 August 2025
Time: 18:30 GMT
Venue: Edgbaston, Birmingham
Series: The Hundred 2025 – Men's Competition
Match No.: 24

Match Overview

Birmingham Phoenix and Welsh Fire clash in a crucial encounter at Edgbaston on 22 August 2025. With the 2025 edition of The Hundred in its final stages, both teams are vying for momentum in what promises to be a high-stakes 100-ball affair.

The Phoenix, who have had a mixed campaign so far, are currently placed fifth in the table with 8 points from 5 matches, while the Fire sit at the bottom of the standings with 4 points from 5 matches. A win for either side could prove vital for their chances of making the Eliminator.

Head-to-Head Record

The recent history between these two sides is closely contested. In the 2024 match at Sophia Gardens, the Phoenix came out on top by 5 wickets with 7 balls to spare. However, in 2023, the Fire edged a thrilling encounter by 6 wickets with 15 balls remaining. Despite the back-and-forth, the Phoenix currently have a stronger win probability at 75%, with the Fire at 25%.

Birmingham Phoenix – Team Analysis

Birmingham Phoenix have shown glimpses of form in recent fixtures. Their most recent win came against London Spirit on 17 August, winning by 7 wickets with 35 balls to spare. However, they have had some shaky performances, losing to the Northern Superchargers and Southern Brave in their last few matches.

Key Players to Watch:

• Tom Banton – Explosive opener who can change the game early on.
• Harry Dearden – All-rounder with the ability to contribute in both batting and bowling.
• David Wiese – Power-hitter who can take the game away from the opposition in the latter stages.

Recent Form:

• 17/08/2025: Phoenix beat London Spirit by 7 wickets
• 15/08/2025: Lost to Northern Superchargers by 36 runs
• 12/08/2025: Phoenix beat Oval Invincibles by 4 wickets

Welsh Fire – Team Analysis

Welsh Fire have struggled this season, with only one win from five matches. Their most recent outing was a heavy 83-run defeat to the Oval Invincibles on 16 August. They will be looking to rediscover some form and build confidence ahead of their upcoming matches.

Key Players to Watch:

• Chris Woakes – Experience and composure could be vital under pressure.
• David Wainwright – A wicket-taking option with a tight line and length.
• Adam Hose – Dynamic middle-order batter who can accelerate the scoring.

Recent Form:

• 16/08/2025: Fire lost to Oval Invincibles by 83 runs
• 13/08/2025: Welsh Fire vs Manchester Originals (Result pending)
• 07/08/2025: Fire lost to Northern Superchargers by 8 wickets

Pitch & Weather Conditions

Edgbaston is known for its relatively flat and batting-friendly pitch in The Hundred. With the match scheduled for 18:30 GMT, the game is likely to be played under lights, which could help the bowlers later in the innings, especially if the weather remains clear.

Match Prediction

Given the current form and head-to-head record, Birmingham Phoenix are strong favorites to come out on top. Their recent win and superior run rate, coupled with a strong batting lineup, gives them the upper hand.

Predicted Total Score: 281.2
Predicted Winner: Birmingham Phoenix
Win Probability:

• Birmingham Phoenix – 75%
• Welsh Fire – 25%

What to Watch For

• Can Birmingham Phoenix capitalize on their recent momentum and secure a much-needed win?
• Will Welsh Fire's batting line-up rise to the occasion under pressure?
• The battle between the pace bowlers and the explosive openers could set the tone early.

Conclusion

This encounter promises to be a high-intensity clash with both teams eager to gain an advantage in the race for the Eliminator. For the Phoenix, a win is essential to stay in the hunt for the playoffs. For the Fire, it's a chance to prove they can compete at the top level and bounce back from their recent struggles.

Fans can expect fireworks at Edgbaston as two of the most competitive teams in The Hundred go head-to-head.

Catch the action on 22 August at 18:30 GMT.
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