The Hundred 2024: Paige Scholfield’s 71 helps Oval Invincibles thrash Birmingham Phoenix in opening match

Paige Scholfield whacked 71 as Oval Invincibles cruised to a 46-run win over a lackluster Birmingham Phoenix in the opening match of The Hundred women’s competition.

Scholfield’s knock off 40 balls was her maiden half-century in the competition and featured 12 sixes as she and Alice Capsey (52) shared a 90-run stand for the second wicket.

Emily Arlott finished the pick of the Phoenix bowlers as she claimed 2-19 but the Invincibles’ total of 150-5 put them in a commanding position.

Phoenix, who did not win a single match in last year’s tournament, had never successfully chased more than 128 in The Hundred.

An 11th consecutive defeat for Phoenix felt inevitable when star overseas trio Suzie Bates (6), Ellyse Perry (0) and Sophie Devine (13) failed to make an impact.

Wicketkeeper Amy Jones briefly showed some fight white 21 but fine bowling from spinner Amanda-Jade Wellington (3-9) and some disciplined fielding saw Phoenix capitulate.