For the Originals, Usama Mir (2 wickets for 26 runs in 20 balls) and Sikandar Raza (2 wickets for 17 runs in 20 balls) stood out with the ball
Sam Curran maintained his composure to become the match-winner once again for the Oval Invincibles in a dramatic last-ball finish against the Manchester Originals at Emirates Old Trafford.
The England allrounder delivered a tight final over, conceding just three runs from the last five balls, securing a narrow victory by three runs and propelling the Invincibles to the top of the table.
Curran, who is in outstanding form in the men's competition, played a crucial role with both bat and ball. He scored 68 from 38 balls, helping the Invincibles set a target of 164-8. His performance with the bat was key in setting a competitive total.
For the Originals, Usama Mir (2 wickets for 26 runs in 20 balls) and Sikandar Raza (2 wickets for 17 runs in 20 balls) stood out with the ball.
Matthew Hurst, the Originals' opener, scored 50 from 29 balls, following his recent half-century, and shared an 89-run opening stand from 54 balls with skipper Phil Salt. While Salt is known for his aggressive play, it was Hurst's impressive array of shots that captivated the crowd.
However, after both Hurst and Salt fell in quick succession—Hurst dismissed by a clever delivery from Will Jacks—the Originals began to falter. Paul Walter hit a few big shots, but Wayne Madsen was retired not out, and replacement Sikandar Raza was caught out quickly. Jamie Overton hit a six but was eventually dismissed by Curran.
With four runs needed from the last ball, Usama Mir could only manage to hit a catch to Tom Lammonby, sealing the win for the Invincibles.