Welsh Fire Women produced one of the most exciting finishes of The Hundred Women’s 2026, defeating Southern Brave Women by four wickets on the final ball at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff. Chasing a target of 122, the hosts held their nerve in a dramatic finish as Heather Graham and Niamh Holland guided the team to a memorable victory.
The thrilling contest handed Southern Brave Women their first defeat of the season and also gave Welsh Fire a significant boost in the race for the playoffs. The Welsh Fire Women vs Southern Brave Women highlights feature a brilliant all-round performance from Player of the Match Heather Graham, whose unbeaten 35 proved to be the difference.
Southern Brave Women Post a Competitive Total
After being asked to bat first, Southern Brave Women put together a solid total of 121 for 5 from their 100 balls. While they were unable to completely dominate the Welsh Fire bowlers, they built useful partnerships throughout the innings to set a competitive target.
Welsh Fire’s bowling attack ensured the scoring rate remained under control during the middle phase of the innings. Georgia Wareham and Heather Graham bowled disciplined spells that prevented Southern Brave from accelerating in the closing stages.
Although Southern Brave managed to cross the 120-run mark, the total appeared to be within reach on a batting-friendly surface if Welsh Fire could build partnerships during the chase.
Southern Brave Strike Early
The chase got off to the worst possible start for Welsh Fire Women as Southern Brave’s bowlers dominated with the new ball. Regular wickets left the home side struggling at 49 for 4, putting the visitors firmly in control of the match.
The pressure continued to build as Welsh Fire’s top order failed to settle, leaving the middle order with plenty of work to do. At that stage, Southern Brave looked set to continue their unbeaten run in the competition.
These moments were among the standout Women’s Hundred highlights, showing how quickly momentum shifted throughout the contest.
Heather Graham Leads the Fightback
With the match slipping away, Georgia Wareham and Heather Graham combined for a crucial partnership that revived Welsh Fire’s hopes. The pair rotated the strike effectively while punishing loose deliveries to reduce the required run rate.
Graham remained calm throughout the innings, balancing sensible shot selection with timely boundaries. Her unbeaten 35 from 28 balls proved invaluable as Welsh Fire edged closer to the target.
Southern Brave continued to fight back with disciplined bowling, ensuring the match went right down to the final over.
Last-Ball Drama Seals Memorable Victory
The final five balls produced some of the biggest Women’s Hundred highlights of the season. Welsh Fire required eight runs, with England fast bowler Lauren Bell entrusted to defend the target.
Niamh Holland delivered a crucial boundary through backward point to reduce the equation before Graham finished the job. Needing one run from the final delivery, Graham calmly pushed the ball through the covers and completed a quick single to secure victory on the 100th ball.
The dramatic finish sparked celebrations among the home players and supporters after one of the most entertaining matches of the tournament.
Women’s Hundred Match Report
This Women’s Hundred match report reflects the importance of teamwork and composure under pressure. Heather Graham’s all-round display earned her the Player of the Match award, while Georgia Wareham’s contribution with both bat and ball played a vital role in the successful chase.
The victory lifted Welsh Fire Women’s playoff hopes and ended Southern Brave Women’s unbeaten start to The Hundred Women’s 2026. The Welsh Fire Women vs Southern Brave Women highlights showcase exactly why The Hundred continues to deliver thrilling cricket, with another unforgettable last-ball finish added to the tournament’s growing list of classics.
