The Hundred 2025: Batters to Watch in the 32nd Match of WF vs SB

The Hundred 2025 is heating up as we gear up for the 32nd match between Welsh Fire (WF) and Southern Brave (SB), and both of these sides play in a competition where batters can affect the context of a game in several overs.

The competition has already given us some explosive innings thus far, so expect some fireworks in this match, as there are at least a couple of players who may really make this match very interesting. Here are the batters you will want to keep an eye on in this entertaining encounter.

Leus du Plooy – SB

Leus du Plooy has had an electric season for Southern Brave so far in 2023, and it is easy to see why. He has tallied 210 runs in 10 appearances for SB, maintaining a 26.25 average and a 125 strike rate. Importantly, he has scored runs with intent. Du Plooy has a style predicated on controlled aggression; he times his effort and power of shots very well, and he can increase the scoring rate when needed.

For the WF bowlers, the task of containing him will be monumentally difficult, as he enjoys nothing more than rotating the strike and punishing a loose ball, especially in the middle overs. Expect du Plooy to play a critical part in the SB innings if they are to make a competitive total.

Jonny Bairstow – WF

If it’s just fireworks that you want, then Jonny Bairstow is the one to turn to. With 260 runs in only 9 matches at an astonishing average of 37.14 and a strike rate of 163.52, he has been a force at the top of the order for Welsh Fire.

Bairstow’s technique fuses elegance with violence and has made him a West Indies-style nightmare for any bowler with The Hundred rules. If he gets off to a flyer, it can set Welsh Fire for the whole match, and, knowing he has been consistent throughout the season, he is likely to mean something to their batting.

Tom Kohler-Cadmore – WF

Keep an eye on Tom Kohler-Cadmore, even while du Plooy and Bairstow take the headlines. The WF batter has made 174 runs in 10 innings, which is solid, at a strong strike rate of 140.32. His average of 21.75 is not exactly screaming “I’m about to dominate,” but Kohler-Cadmore is versatile and unpredictable – he can certainly disrupt the way a match is played.

He can score rapidly at the death, or he can stabilise an innings that is crumbling, which makes him an overlooked but significant part of the high-pressure match.

Du Plooy’s controlled aggression, Bairstow’s explosive starts, and Kohler-Cadmore’s adaptable game-changer leave fans spoilt for choice. The only question that remains is who will take the opportunity and turn the match in favour of their team? What is guaranteed is that it is a game where every run is crucial.

FAQs

Why is Tom Kohler-Cadmore considered an X-factor in this match?

He can stabilize an innings or accelerate at the death, providing crucial flexibility for Welsh Fire.

Which player is most likely to give Welsh Fire a strong start?

Jonny Bairstow, with his explosive hitting at the top of the order, is most likely to provide a strong start.

What makes Leus du Plooy a threat to Welsh Fire?

Du Plooy combines calculated aggression with smart shot selection, making him dangerous in the middle overs.