Mitchell Marsh delivered a commanding performance to help Sunrisers Leeds earn their first win of the 2026 Hundred season, edging out Southern Brave by five runs at Headingley. This win marks a recovery for the Sunrisers following their opening loss to MI London, while the Brave have yet to secure a victory in two attempts.
Sunrisers elected to bat first and built momentum quickly. Marsh was particularly aggressive, completing his half-century in just 26 deliveries. His partnership with Ryan Rickelton allowed the team to reach 102 runs by the halfway point. Although Adil Rashid managed to take three quick wickets for the Brave, including removing Marsh for 69, Dan Lawrence ensured the momentum continued with his own 24-ball half-century, pushing the final score to 187-5.
Southern Brave launched a competitive chase led by Ben McKinney, who scored 44 off 23 balls. Despite solid contributions from Jamie Smith and Marcus Stoinis, the Sunrisers maintained defensive pressure. Abrar Ahmed proved vital for the hosts by taking two wickets. Tristan Stubbs remained not out with 43 runs, but the combined efforts of Nathan Ellis and Brydon Carse in the final moments restricted the Brave, securing a narrow triumph for Leeds.
