[WATCH] Direct-hit magic: Ashleigh Gardner sends Marie Kelly packing | The Hundred Women 2025

The Hundred Women’s Competition 2025 produced another edge-of-the-seat clash as Trent Rockets edged past Birmingham Phoenix by three wickets, thanks to a moment of fielding brilliance from Ashleigh Gardner that turned the match on its head at Trent Bridge.

Ashleigh Gardner’s direct-hit to dismiss Marie Kelly

With Phoenix looking set for a late surge, the breakthrough came on the 84th ball of their innings. Australian all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner, already renowned for her power hitting and sharp cricketing brain, showcased her world-class fielding. Off her own bowling, she swooped onto the ball and fired a flat, laser-like throw to catch Marie Kelly short of her ground. The direct hit lifted the Rockets’ energy and stalled Phoenix’s momentum at a crucial stage.

Kelly (14 off 15) was shaping up as a key middle-order batter for Phoenix, looking to accelerate after steadying the innings. Her dismissal disrupted their rhythm and left the lower order exposed. Though Emma Lamb held firm with a resilient 56 not out to guide Phoenix to 123/6, Kelly’s run-out left a noticeable gap in their total.

Here’s the video:

Oh, Ash Gardner 😱

That's a direct hit! #TheHundred pic.twitter.com/oFCgG1QACP

— The Hundred (@thehundred) August 27, 2025

Also WATCH: Linsey Smith’s brilliant reflexes sends Amelia Kerr packing in The Hundred Women 2025

Nat Sciver-Brunt anchors Rockets’ chase

Chasing 124, Rockets relied on the calm head of skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt. With wickets tumbling around her, Sciver-Brunt compiled a measured 52, rotating the strike smartly while finding boundaries when needed. Her composure steered the chase, and though the Rockets stumbled late, they scraped through to 126/7, sealing victory with just three balls remaining.

Earlier, young spinner Emily Gordon impressed for Rockets, taking 2/24 to apply pressure in the middle overs. For Phoenix, Emma Lamb’s lone hand stood out, her unbeaten knock provided resilience amid collapsing partnerships.

Also READ: Nat Sciver-Brunt powers Trent Rockets to thrilling win over Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred Women 2025

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.