Southern Brave vs Welsh Fire Prediction & Match Preview – The Hundred Men’s 2026

Southern Brave face Welsh Fire at The Rose Bowl in Southampton on Wednesday 22 July in the second match of The Hundred Men’s 2026. Both teams have strong line-ups, so the evening should produce good cricket in what looks like perfect weather.

Brave are expected to be led by Chris Jordan and build around Jamie Smith, Tom Abell, David Miller and Marcus Stoinis in the batting, with Thomas Rew also in the mix. The attack is rich in quality, with Jofra Archer, Luke Wood and Chris Jordan in the pace group and Adil Rashid as the spin option.

Welsh Fire are likely to be captained by Phil Salt, who could open with Jordan Cox, while Joe Root and Rachin Ravindra offer class in the top order. Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Matthew Short and Marco Jansen add depth. The bowling features Chris Woakes, Lockie Ferguson and Sam Cook.

Dew is expected to be minimal, which means the toss should not matter greatly. Wickets in hand during the powerplay are likely to decide who finishes strongest, and a first-innings total of 155 or more should be competitive. We pick Southern Brave.

Probable playing XI

Pitch report

The Rose Bowl surface is generally even, with something in it for both departments. Quick bowlers often get swing and seam under English cloud, so the powerplay matters. Later the pitch settles and bounce is dependable, before it slows a little and lets spinners and cutters have an effect in the middle overs. Scores of 165–180 are usually competitive and anything over 185–190 is hard to chase.

Weather

Excellent weather is forecast for the 6:30 pm local start on 22 July, with temperatures of 25–26°C, sun and cloud, and very little chance of rain. Light winds may give the quicks a slight boost early, while dry conditions favour confident stroke play.

Expected scores

• 1st innings: 145–160
• 2nd innings: 140–155

About The Hundred