BPH vs WEF: Get ready for a thrilling encounter in The Hundred Men’s Competition 2025 as the Birmingham Phoenix (BPH) lock horns with the Welsh Fire (WEF). Both teams are packed with international superstars and domestic talent, promising a high-octane clash at the iconic Edgbaston ground. Birmingham Phoenix, with their explosive batting and a world-class pace attack, will look to dominate at home. However, Welsh Fire, led by the dynamic duo of Steven Smith and Jonny Bairstow, possess the firepower to challenge any opposition. This match is set to be a spectacle of powerful hitting and clever bowling, making it a crucial fixture for both sides early in the tournament.
BPH vs WEF Match Details
BPH vs WEF Match Preview
Birmingham Phoenix (BPH): The Phoenix have assembled a formidable squad for this season. Their batting lineup is a powerhouse, featuring the explosive Will Smeed, the classy Ben Duckett, and the destructive Liam Livingstone. With Joe Clarke providing stability in the middle order, they have depth and variety. Their real strength, however, lies in their bowling attack. The Kiwi trio of Trent Boult, Tim Southee, and Adam Milne forms one of the most lethal pace batteries in the competition, capable of dismantling any batting order. All-rounder Benny Howell adds a crucial dimension with his clever variations and late-order hitting.
Welsh Fire (WEF): Welsh Fire will be relying on their star-studded top order to set the tone. The combination of Steven Smith’s classical genius and Jonny Bairstow’s raw power is a dream opening pair for any side. Captain Tom Abell and Luke Wells provide solidity to the middle order. The bowling department is led by the experienced Matt Henry and David Payne, with Ajeet Dale offering a promising pace option. The inclusion of spinner Chris Green and all-rounder Paul Walter gives them balance and tactical flexibility. Their success will largely depend on how their top batters perform against the quality pace attack of the Phoenix.
BPH vs WEF Pitch Report
The match will be played at Edgbaston, Birmingham, which is renowned for its excellent batting surfaces. The pitch typically offers good pace and true bounce, allowing batters to play their shots freely. The boundaries are relatively short, which further tilts the balance in favour of the batters. A high-scoring game is on the cards. Bowlers with genuine pace or clever variations can find success, but they will need to be very disciplined with their lines and lengths. The team winning the toss might prefer to chase, knowing what target they need to achieve. A score of around 150-160 could be considered competitive in a 100-ball innings.
BPH vs WEF Possible Playing XI
Birmingham Phoenix (BPH):
- Will Smeed
- Ben Duckett
- Jacob Bethell
- Joe Clarke (WK)
- Liam Livingstone (C)
- Louis Kimber
- Benny Howell
- Chris Wood
- Trent Boult
- Tim Southee
- Adam Milne
Welsh Fire (WEF):
- Steven Smith
- Jonny Bairstow (WK)
- Luke Wells
- Tom Abell (C)
- Tom Kohler-Cadmore
- Saif Zaib
- Paul Walter
- Chris Green
- David Payne
- Ajeet Dale
- Matt Henry
BPH vs WEF Dream11 Prediction, Fantasy Cricket Tips & Key Players
- Top Wicket-Keeper Pick: Jonny Bairstow (WEF) is a must-have. His explosive batting at the top of the order combined with his keeping duties makes him a prime source of fantasy points.
- Top Batter Picks:
- Liam Livingstone (BPH): A devastating hitter who can change the course of a game in a few balls. He can also contribute with his handy spin, making him a top captaincy choice.
- Steven Smith (WEF): The anchor of the Welsh Fire batting. His consistency and ability to play long innings make him a safe and reliable pick.
- Will Smeed (BPH): Known for his aggressive approach from the very first ball, Smeed is a high-impact player perfect for this format.
- Top All-Rounder Pick: Benny Howell (BPH) is a fantasy favourite. His deceptive medium-pace bowling, full of slower balls and cutters, often brings wickets, and he is a capable finisher with the bat.
- Top Bowler Picks:
- Trent Boult (BPH): A world-class swing bowler who is lethal with the new ball. He is a genuine wicket-taker and a strong contender for the vice-captaincy.
- Matt Henry (WEF): The leader of the Fire’s pace attack. His ability to take wickets in the powerplay and death overs makes him a valuable asset.
- Tim Southee (BPH): Another experienced campaigner who can swing the ball and trouble the best batters. His partnership with Boult will be crucial.
Dream11 Captain and Vice-Captain Choices
- Captain: Liam Livingstone, Jonny Bairstow
- Vice-Captain: Trent Boult, Steven Smith, Benny Howell
Dream11 Team Suggestions
Team Suggestion 1: Head-to-Head / Small League Team
- Wicket-Keeper: Jonny Bairstow
- Batters: Steven Smith, Will Smeed, Ben Duckett
- All-Rounders: Liam Livingstone (C), Benny Howell (VC), Paul Walter
- Bowlers: Trent Boult, Matt Henry, Tim Southee, Chris Wood
Team Suggestion 2: Grand League / Mega Contest Team
- Wicket-Keeper: Joe Clarke
- Batters: Steven Smith, Will Smeed, Tom Abell
- All-Rounders: Liam Livingstone (C), Benny Howell, Chris Green
- Bowlers: Trent Boult (VC), Adam Milne, David Payne, Matt Henry
