Originals Survive Warner’s Heroics to Secure First Win in The Hundred 2025
After a cautious start, the Originals' middle order lit up the innings. Ben McKinney delivered a barrage of boundary-hitting, launching three huge sixes and two fours in just 12 balls for a quick-fire 29, laying the groundwork for a big total. Phil Salt followed with a brisk 31 off 20, while captain Jos Buttler anchored the effort with a measured 46 off 37. Together with Heinrich Klaasen (24 off 17), these contributions built a daunting total that proved pivotal.
In response, the London Spirit looked promising as Warner, the tournament’s leading run-getter, combined his experience with skipper Kane Williamson to steady the chase at 75 for 1. However, scoring quickly proved elusive on a challenging pitch. Jamie Smith and Ashton Turner injected momentum with hefty blows, yet the persistent pressure made each run hard-won.
The difference was made by the Originals’ pace battery. Sonny Baker, named Player of the Match, opened with fierce discipline and pace, swinging the ball at around 87 mph. He rattled the Spirit’s top order with dot balls, going for just 21 runs in his 4 overs, all while targeting Warner. From the other end, Josh Tongue was lethal: his 3 wickets for 29 runs included the big scalp of Warner, caught down the leg side in a crucial blow to the chase.
Despite a feverish finish, including a rapid 19 off 7 balls from Jamie Overton, the Spirit ended on 153 for 6, just short of overpowering the Originals’ total. The Originals earned a much-needed win thanks to their early batting firepower and incisive death-over bowling.
Beyond the result, Warner’s efforts added another milestone. His 71 elevated his career T20 aggregate past Virat Kohli, moving him into fifth on the all-time T20 run-scorers list, with 13,545 runs.
Solid batting from the Originals’ top order, combined with breakout performances from Baker and Tongue, sealed a memorable win, handling a potent Warner-led charge and delivering what could be a turning point in their campaign.