In the 22nd match of The Hundred Men’s 2024, Sam Curran delivered a game-changing performance with both bat and ball, guiding the Oval Invincibles to a comprehensive six-wicket victory over Southern Brave.

 Sam Curran’s slower-ball magic

On the 18th ball of the first innings, Curran produced a moment of brilliance that turned the tide. Bowling to Alex Davies, the left-arm seamer unleashed a deceptive 71mph slower delivery. Davies, who struggled throughout his innings, was completely outfoxed. He attempted an early drive, misreading the pace and movement of the ball, which pitched around the leg stump, moved away sharply, and clipped the off-stump, sending the bails flying. This dismissal ended Davies’s scratchy knock of 5 runs off 11 balls, including just one boundary.

Here is the video:

Check this from Sam Curran! 😮‍💨#TheHundred | #RoadToTheEliminator pic.twitter.com/CKNd2UaIy9

— The Hundred (@thehundred) August 8, 2024

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Southern Brave’s struggles to post competitive total

Batting first, Southern Brave managed to post a total of 118/8 in their allotted 100 balls. The team’s batting line-up faltered, with only their captain, James Vince, offering resistance. Vince played a crucial knock, scoring 52 runs off 39 balls, studded with six fours and a six. However, the rest of the batting order struggled against the disciplined bowling attack of the Curran brothers.

Tom Curran, leading the charge, picked up four wickets for 24 runs in his 20-ball spell, while his younger brother, Sam, provided excellent support with two wickets for 28 runs. Their combined efforts severely restricted Southern Brave, setting a modest target of 119 for the Oval Invincibles.

Oval Invincibles’ run chase

In response, the Oval Invincibles chased down the target with ease, reaching 120/4 in just 85 balls. The chase was anchored by Jordan Cox, who played a valuable innings of 46 runs off 29 balls, featuring seven fours and a six. Curran, continuing his outstanding performance, contributed a rapid 35 off just 18 balls. His explosive knock included five towering sixes, showcasing his batting prowess.

With 15 balls to spare, the Oval Invincibles secured a comfortable six-wicket victory, further solidifying their standing in the tournament.

For his exceptional all-round display, Curran was rightly awarded the Man of the Match. His crucial wickets, including the key dismissal of Davies and Kieron Pollard, along with his explosive batting, proved decisive in Oval Invincibles’ triumph.

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