| Matches Played | 08 |
| WEF Won | 01 |
| SOB Won | 06 |
| Tied / No Results | 01 |
Pitch Report
A surface as helpful to the batters in both innings usually prevails at The Sophia Gardens in Cardiff. Such pitches always recommend the answer: bowling would be the preferred option for those winning the toss with a hot run chase in the offing. The surface offers a lot of carry and bounce, and hence, spinner-paced variations will have to be their attribute since spin will not get any assistance from the pitch itself.
Welsh Fire vs Southern Brave – Match Analysis
Welsh Fire’s Strengths
Home advantage at Sophia Gardens provides crucial familiarity with pitch conditions and passionate Welsh support. Desperate situation creates a nothing-to-lose mentality, potentially unleashing aggressive cricket without fear of failure. Recent victory against Manchester Originals offers a psychological foundation and proof of capability, while underdog status removes external pressure completely.
Welsh Fire’s Weaknesses
Tournament’s worst record, with just one victory from four matches, creates a severe confidence deficit and negative momentum. Bottom-table position intensifies qualification pressure, making each delivery crucial for survival. Poor form breeds hesitation and defensive mindsets, while media scrutiny and fan expectations add psychological burden to already fragile team morale.
Southern Brave’s Strengths
Superior tournament position with two wins provides a psychological advantage and breathing space over Welsh Fire. Early-season momentum from consecutive victories demonstrates team capability and a winning formula. A great cricket experience and a professional approach in pressure situations, combined with a better net run rate, offer multiple pathways to qualification success.
Southern Brave’s Weaknesses
Three consecutive defeats create an alarming form slide and confidence erosion, questioning the team’s mental resilience under pressure. Loss of early momentum raises concerns about consistency and ability to perform when expectations rise. Away ground disadvantage at Cardiff compounds pressure, while recent failures may trigger overcautious approaches and defensive decision-making during crucial moments.
Welsh Fire vs Southern Brave Predicted Playing 11s
Welsh Fire (WEF): Stephen Eskinazi, Steven Smith, Jonny Bairstow (captain and wicketkeeper), Luke Wells, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Paul Walter, Chris Green, Saif Zaib, David Payne, Matt Henry, Ajeet Singh Dale
Southern Brave (SOB): Leus du Plooy, James Vince (captain), Jason Roy, Laurie Evans (wicketkeeper), James Coles, Michael Bracewell, Hilton Cartwright, Jordan Thompson, Craig Overton, Jofra Archer, Tymal Mills
WEF vs SOB: Fantasy Teams Selection
WEF vs SOB Small League: Jonny Bairstow (captain & wicketkeeper), Jason Roy, Steven Smith, James Vince, Hilton Cartwright, Michael Bracewell, Chris Green, Jordan Thompson, David Payne, Tymal Mills, Matt Henry
WEF vs SOB Big League: Leus du Plooy, Stephen Eskinazi, Luke Wells, James Coles, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Laurie Evans (wicketkeeper), Paul Walter, Craig Overton, Jofra Archer, Saif Zaib, Ajeet Singh Dale
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