The Hundred semi-finals confirmed as Manchester Originals win thrilling final group game

Manchester Originals advanced to the men’s Hundred semi-final after beating Oval Invincibles by six wickets in a thrilling contest at Old Trafford.

In a game where the winning side would finish second behind group leaders Trent Rockets and the losing side suffer elimination, Invincibles posted 143-9, largely thanks to captain Sam Billings’ 53 from 33 balls.

The visitors slipped to 23-3 in the must-win clash but Billings and a brutal cameo from Tom Curran (16 from seven) took them to a competitive score, despite Josh Little returning extraordinary figures of 5-13.

In reply, Wayne Madsen successfully overturned an lbw decision on his first ball to guide the Originals towards the total with 53 from 39, with Paul Walter hitting the winning runs of the penultimate delivery.

The win means Manchester Originals will face London Spirit in Friday’s eliminator, with the winner progressing to Sunday’s Hundred final against Trent Rockets.

Originals bowler Little said: ‘I’ve never been so nervous in my life. I’m absolutely delighted with that.

‘I just tried to keep it as simple as possible and luckily it came off today. For me it’s a fast-paced game and the guys have been nice so I feel good.

‘Things have been going well so we just want to get a win and thankfully we got the job done.’

Manchester Originals’ victory not only eliminated Oval Invincibles but also Birmingham Phoenix, who needed this evening’s match to be tied or washed out to make the knockout stages.

Meanwhile, in the women’s competition, Oval Invincibles outclassed Manchester Originals to leapfrog Southern Brave and progress straight to finals day.

Manchester Originals Men v London Spirit Men, (Friday September 2, 18:30, The Ageas Bowl

Southern Brave Women v Trent Rockets Women