Jemimah Rodrigues claimed her second consecutive Player of the Match award as Southern Brave maintained their perfect start to the Women’s Hundred 2026 with a dramatic one-run victory over MI London in Southampton.
Southern Brave posted 126 for 7 from their 100 balls before holding MI London to 125 for 3 in a tense finish.
The victory earned Brave another four points and extended their winning run to three matches, while MI London remained without a victory after suffering a third successive defeat.
Rodrigues Plays Another Crucial Innings
Rodrigues appeared far more comfortable at the crease after gaining confidence from her match-winning performance in the previous game. Batting at No. 4, the India international found the gaps regularly and played with greater freedom after struggling for timing during the early stages of Southern Brave’s first two matches.
She scored 32 from 22 deliveries and combined with Laura Wolvaardt in a vital 60-run partnership.
Wolvaardt contributed 35 from 30 balls as the pair helped Southern Brave recover and reach a competitive total of 126 for 7.
Matthews Leads MI London’s Strong Start
Hayley Matthews carried her impressive bowling form into the chase after taking four wickets earlier in the match. The West Indies all-rounder scored 32 from 28 balls and gave MI London a solid foundation.
Captain Hollie Armitage added 27 from 21 deliveries, while Danni Wyatt-Hodge kept the chase under control at the other end.
When Armitage was dismissed, MI London still appeared to be in a commanding position. The visitors needed only 18 runs from the final 15 balls with eight wickets remaining and powerful batters such as Chinelle Henry and Nicola Carey still available.
Southern Brave Produce Stunning Late Comeback
Southern Brave once again demonstrated their composure under pressure. Issy Wong, Sophie Molineux and Lauren Bell delivered an excellent display of death bowling to turn the match in Brave’s favour.
Molineux took responsibility during the penultimate set and executed a series of accurate yorkers that sharply increased the pressure on MI London.
The captain then showed confidence in Bell by asking her to defend eight runs from the final five deliveries, despite the fast bowler having conceded 24 runs from her first 15 balls.
Bell responded superbly, holding her nerve and restricting the visitors as Southern Brave completed a remarkable one-run victory.
Wyatt-Hodge remained unbeaten on 52 from 42 balls, but her innings was not enough to take MI London over the line.
Rodrigues Praises Southern Brave’s Belief
Rodrigues was named Player of the Match for the second game in succession after her important innings. She credited Southern Brave’s calmness and confidence for another narrow victory.
“This team has great belief. What sets us apart is the calmness. We kept believing.”
Although Brave were again forced to battle through a tight contest, their ability to remain composed in decisive moments proved crucial.
Southern Brave Stay Top of the Table
Southern Brave strengthened their position at the top of the standings with 12 points from three victories and a Net Run Rate of 0.250.
MI London remain eighth with no points after losing all three of their matches. Their Net Run Rate stands at -1.841.
Southern Brave will next face Birmingham Phoenix Women at the Utilita Bowl on July 30, 2026.
MI London will look for their first victory when they meet London Spirit Women at the Kia Oval on July 29, 2026.
