The second clash of the Hundred 2025 brings a thrilling North vs. South rivalry as Manchester Originals host Southern Brave at Emirates Old Trafford on August 6. With both teams aiming to kick off their campaign strongly, the match promises fireworks in front of a packed crowd in Manchester. Ahead of this riveting clash, have a look at our Manchester Originals vs Southern Brave preview, probable playing XI, and pitch report.
Manchester Originals vs Southern Brave Preview
Southern Brave enter the contest as runners-up from last season and with a dominant head-to-head record over the Originals. But for the Originals, it is about redemption, especially after a disastrous 2024 season and five consecutive losses at home. The Brave will be looking to maintain their dominance while the Originals will bank on their revamped squad and home support to turn the tide.
Manchester originals Preview
A fresh start is exactly what the Manchester Originals need. After finishing 7th in the Hundred Men's 2024 season, they have brought in reinforcements, especially in the bowling department. The leadership remains with Philip Salt, who will be looking to set the tone at the top alongside Matthew Hurst and the explosive Jos Buttler.
The middle order will depend on Heinrich Klaasen, Thomas Aspinwall, and all-rounder Lewis Gregory. Bowling is where the side struggled most last season, but with the experienced James Anderson, new-ball pacers Josh Tongue and Marchant de Lange, and the spin duo of Tom Hartley and Gregory, they look more balanced.
Trivia: "Did you know? The Originals haven't won a game at Old Trafford since 2022," a streak they are desperate to break.
Southern Brave Preview
James Vince leads a Southern Brave side that was consistent in 2024, storming into the final. With a mix of firepower and experience, the Brave look like early title contenders again. The top order boasts Finn Allen, Jason Roy, and James Vince himself, while the middle order is shored up by Laurie Evans and Leus du Plooy.
With the likes of Hilton Cartwright and Craig Overton providing late hitting, their batting looks formidable. Bowling-wise, they are stacked. The fearsome pace trio of Jofra Archer, Reece Topley, and Tymal Mills brings variety and speed. Danny Briggs and James Coles provide control in the middle overs. Few teams in the Hundred can match their depth.
Trivia: " Southern Brave have won 4 of their last five games and 2 of their last 3 against originals".
Manchester originals vs Southern Brave Probable XI
Manchester Originals Probable XI: Jos Buttler (wk), Philip Salt(c), Matthew Hurst, Mark Chapman, Heinrich Klaasen, Lewis Gregory, Scott Currie, Noor Ahmad, James Anderson, Tom Hartley, George Garton.
Southern Brave Probable XI: James Vince(c), Finn Allen(wk), Jason Roy, Laurie Evans, Leus du Plooy, Hilton Cartwright, Chris Jordan, Reece Topley, Tymal Mills, Jordan Thompson, Craig Overton.
Pitch Report - Old Trafford, Manchester
The Old Trafford pitch is known for early seam movement especially under the lights . Fast blowers like Archer and Tongue will enjoy the new ball while spinners will get some help in the middle overs. Teams batting 1st have always had the upperhand at Old Trafford where 13 of the 16 matches have been won while batting first.
Chasing teams have managed to win only three matches. The average 1st innings score is around 145-150 runs and anything around 160 is really hard to chase down at this venue.
- Matches Played: 16
- Won Batting 1st: 13
- Won Batting 2nd: 3
- Average 1st Innings Score: 144
