Saqib Mahmood put two years of injury struggles behind him to lead the Oval Invincibles to victory in The Hundred final at Lord’s. With Southern Brave chasing 148, Mahmood delivered a game-changing spell of reverse-swing bowling, taking 3 wickets for just 1 run in seven balls. His crucial dismissals of Leus du Plooy, Kieron Pollard, and Laurie Evans shifted the momentum, securing back-to-back titles for the Invincibles.
The Invincibles, now the most consistent team in the competition, matched the women’s team’s feat by retaining the trophy. Despite Mahmood missing two seasons due to back stress fractures, the team’s decision to stick with him paid off. Captain Sam Billings and coach Tom Moody have built the team around all-rounders Will Jacks and the Curran brothers, giving them unmatched balance in the tournament.
In the final, Jacks set the tone with 37 off 22 balls, which included a key dismissal of James Vince. Meanwhile, the Invincibles’ spinners—Adam Zampa, Nathan Sowter, and Jacks—dominated the season, collectively taking 34 wickets. Furthermore, Zampa’s crucial breakthrough, combined with Mahmood’s searing spell, ensured Southern Brave’s chase crumbled. As a result, Mahmood’s performance likely caught the eye of England selectors ahead of Australia’s upcoming tour.
Despite some middle-order wobbles, contributions from Tom Curran and Tom Lammonby helped the Invincibles post 147, which proved just enough. With Chris Jordan’s dismissal by Zampa, the Invincibles’ name was etched on the trophy once more, highlighting their dominance in The Hundred.
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