Welsh Fire captain Phil Salt anchored a successful run chase, scoring an unbeaten 47 to secure a six-wicket win over Southern Brave in the opening match of the 2026 Men’s Hundred at the Utilita Bowl. Salt, the league’s record run-scorer, guided his team to a target of 136 with just two balls to spare.
After winning the toss, Southern Brave posted 135-7. Youngster Thomas Rew contributed 41, while David Miller added a late 44 off 35 balls. The Welsh Fire bowling attack, spearheaded by Marco Jansen’s efficient 2-17, effectively restricted the hosts’ scoring throughout the innings.
In response, Salt collaborated with Matt Short, Joe Root, and Rachin Ravindra to maintain steady momentum. With the match reaching a tense conclusion, Asa Tribe hit a boundary off Chris Jordan before Salt finished the contest with a decisive six. This victory marks a positive start for Welsh Fire, a team looking to improve upon a difficult 2025 season.
