Manchester Originals to Clash with Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred Men’s 2025
Manchester Originals are set to face off against Birmingham Phoenix in Match 28 of The Hundred Men’s 2025 at Old Trafford in Manchester. The two teams have had a similar journey in the tournament so far, each winning only two out of the six games played. However, Manchester has a slight edge in their head-to-head record against Birmingham. While Phoenix is currently ranked fifth, Manchester Originals sit just below them due to a lower net run rate.
Key Players
Josh Tongue has been the standout performer for Manchester Originals, taking 10 wickets in just four innings. On the other hand, Liam Livingstone has been the shining light for Birmingham Phoenix, scoring 227 runs in six innings.
Pitch Report and Head-to-Head Record
The pitch at Old Trafford is expected to be batting-friendly, offering true bounce and good carry throughout the match. Both teams will have an opportunity to put up a strong total, with batters likely to enjoy the conditions.
Predicted Playing XIs
Manchester Originals (MNR):
Phil Salt (c), Ben McKinney, Jos Buttler (wk), Rachin Ravindra, Heinrich Klaasen, Matty Hurst, Lewis Gregory, Scott Currie, Noor Ahmad, Josh Tongue, Sonny Baker
Birmingham Phoenix (BPH):
Will Smeed, Ben Duckett, Joe Clarke (wk), Liam Livingstone (c), Jacob Bethell, Louis Kimber, Benny Howell, Adam Milne, Tim Southee, Trent Boult, Chris Wood
Probable Best Performers
Probable Best Batter: Phil Salt
Phil Salt has had a good start to the season and is expected to play a crucial role in the match with his aggressive top-order batting.
Probable Best Bowler: Adam Milne
Adam Milne has been a tricky customer with the ball and could be the key for Birmingham Phoenix in the upcoming game.
Match Prediction
According to the prediction, the chasing team is likely to have the upper hand in the match. Two scenarios have been outlined based on the toss:
Scenario 1:
If Manchester Originals win the toss and opt to bowl first, the predicted powerplay score is 35-45 runs for Birmingham Phoenix, with a final total of 155-175. In this scenario, Manchester Originals are expected to emerge victorious.
Scenario 2:
If Birmingham Phoenix win the toss and choose to bowl first, the expected powerplay score for Manchester Originals is 40-50 runs. The final total for Manchester is predicted to be between 155-175, leading to a win for Birmingham Phoenix.
It is important to note that the prediction is based on analysis and instinct, and audience members are encouraged to make their own decisions when predicting the outcome of the match.
Team Form and Strategy
Both Manchester Originals and Birmingham Phoenix have had a mixed bag of performances in The Hundred Men’s 2025. Manchester started the tournament on a high note with a couple of convincing wins but then faced a slump in form with consecutive losses. However, they bounced back with a win in their last match, showcasing their ability to turn things around. On the other hand, Birmingham Phoenix started slowly but gained momentum midway through the tournament, securing crucial victories. With both teams looking to solidify their positions on the points table, this upcoming clash holds significant importance for their playoff aspirations.
Manchester Originals, led by Phil Salt, will look to rely on their explosive batting lineup to set up big totals. Players like Jos Buttler and Rachin Ravindra have the ability to take the game away from the opposition in quick time. Furthermore, the bowling department, spearheaded by the likes of Josh Tongue and Noor Ahmad, will aim to stifle the Birmingham batsmen and take crucial wickets to restrict the opposition.
On the other hand, Birmingham Phoenix will count on their skipper Liam Livingstone to lead from the front with the bat. Livingstone’s aggressive approach at the top of the order has been a key factor in Phoenix’s success so far. Additionally, the bowling unit, featuring the likes of Adam Milne and Tim Southee, will look to exploit the conditions at Old Trafford and put pressure on the Manchester batsmen.
Player Matchups to Watch
One of the key matchups to keep an eye on in this fixture will be the battle between Liam Livingstone and Josh Tongue. Livingstone’s ability to take on the best bowlers in the league will be tested against Tongue’s knack for picking up crucial wickets. How this battle unfolds could have a significant impact on the outcome of the match.
Another intriguing matchup will be between Phil Salt and Adam Milne. Salt’s aggressive approach at the top of the order will be put to the test by Milne’s pace and accuracy. The outcome of this battle could set the tone for the innings and provide a glimpse of which team gains the upper hand early on.
Matchday Experience
For fans attending the match at Old Trafford, the atmosphere is expected to be electric as two evenly matched teams battle it out on the field. The Hundred has brought a new wave of excitement to cricket, with its fast-paced format and emphasis on entertainment. From music and fireworks to engaging fan activities, spectators can expect a thrilling matchday experience.
With both teams hungry for a win to boost their standings in the tournament, the Manchester Originals vs. Birmingham Phoenix clash promises to be a closely contested affair. As the players take the field, cricket fans can look forward to witnessing an intense battle between bat and ball, filled with moments of brilliance and drama that make The Hundred a must-watch competition.


