Date: August 07, 2025
Time: 11:00 PM IST | 5:30 PM GMT | 6:30 PM Local
Venue: Headingley, Leeds
As the sun sets over the vibrant cricketing city of Leeds, all eyes will be on Headingley as two explosive teams—Northern Superchargers and Welsh Fire—kick off their campaigns in The Hundred 2025. With a fresh season comes fresh ambitions, new additions, and the promise of high-octane action. Both sides boast international pedigree and dynamic talent, making this encounter a mouth-watering prospect for cricket fans around the globe.
 Northern Superchargers: Brook Era Begins with Purpose
The Northern Superchargers enter this tournament under the leadership of Harry Brook, who has recently been named the England white-ball captain. His captaincy not only energizes the squad but also adds a layer of expectation. Brook, known for his explosive middle-order batting and fearless approach, will be keen to make a statement early.
 A Closer Look at the Squad:
The Superchargers have made some smart moves in the off-season. The additions of Zak Crawley and Dan Lawrence strengthen the top and middle order significantly. With David Miller, one of the most destructive T20 batters in the world, joining forces with Brook, the Superchargers’ batting unit looks both balanced and brutal.
Key Batting Options:
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Harry Brook (C): Leader, enforcer, and potential match-winner.
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Zak Crawley: Anchorman at the top who can shift gears effortlessly.
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David Miller: The ‘Killer Miller’ moniker still holds, especially in chases.
Bowling Depth:
The pace attack is headlined by Matthew Potts and Mohammad Amir, providing a blend of youthful energy and seasoned guile. Adil Rashid, England’s premier white-ball spinner, adds bite in the middle overs.
X-Factor: Don’t overlook Imad Wasim, whose all-round skills add critical balance to the team. Whether with the new ball or breaking partnerships with his left-arm spin, he can turn a game on its head.
 Welsh Fire: Ready to Reignite
After finishing sixth in 2024, Welsh Fire have gone for substance and style this season. And nothing symbolizes that more than the signing of Steve Smith, one of the greatest modern-day cricketers.
 The Smith Effect:
Smith’s unorthodox technique may not scream “T20 monster”, but in the 100-ball format, his adaptability and intelligence make him a fascinating addition. He’s expected to anchor the innings, allowing the power-hitters around him to flourish.
Firepower in the Batting Line-Up:
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Jonny Bairstow: Returning to familiar turf at Headingley, Bairstow will have a point to prove against his hometown team.
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Tom Kohler-Cadmore: The explosive right-hander can be destructive in the powerplay.
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Paul Walter: A towering all-rounder who provides big hits and useful overs.
Bowling Attack:
Riley Meredith’s raw pace and Chris Green’s economical off-spin are crucial components of the Fire’s bowling strategy. David Payne and Josh Hull offer left-arm options that can trouble right-handers under lights.
X-Factor: Chris Green—the Australian all-rounder—is perhaps the most underrated pick. His clever variations, coupled with his ability to finish with the bat, make him a must-watch.
 Head-to-Head Record (NOS vs WEF)
Matches | Northern Superchargers Wins | Welsh Fire Wins | No Results |
---|---|---|---|
3 | 2 | 1 | 0 |
While the past slightly favors the Superchargers, the intensity of The Hundred often defies historical data. Expect fireworks regardless.
 Venue Insight: Headingley, Leeds
The iconic Headingley ground, steeped in cricketing history, offers a pitch that promises entertainment. Known for its good bounce and carry, it’s a paradise for stroke players.
Pitch Report:
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Batting-friendly with high scores expected.
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New ball bowlers get some movement, especially if there’s cloud cover.
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Spinners come into play as the pitch wears—expect grip and turn from the 50th ball onward.
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Average 1st innings score: 150+ in the last 5 Hundred matches.
Toss Strategy:
Win the toss and bat first, especially in evening conditions when dew is less of a factor. Setting a 160+ target could be a match-winner here.
 NOS vs WEF: Dream11 Fantasy Picks
Here are our top picks and combinations for today’s Dream11 fantasy team.
Wicketkeepers
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Jonny Bairstow – Experience, explosiveness, and wicketkeeping points.
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Tom Kohler-Cadmore – Underrated value pick with top-order batting responsibility.
Batters
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Harry Brook – Captain leading from the front.
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Steve Smith – Smart selection; could anchor and accelerate.
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David Miller – Ideal finisher.
All-Rounders
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Chris Green – Offers both economy and wicket-taking ability.
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Paul Walter – Left-arm pace and six-hitting ability.
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Dan Lawrence – Handy spin and middle-order solidity.
Bowlers
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Adil Rashid – The magician in the middle overs.
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Matthew Potts – Consistent wicket-taker.
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Mohammad Amir – Left-arm class with the new ball.
 Dream11 Captain & Vice-Captain Picks
💡 Choice 1:
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Captain: Chris Green
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Vice-Captain: Steve Smith
A smart combo: Green brings all-round value, while Smith could rack up a big score.
💡 Choice 2:
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Captain: Jonny Bairstow
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Vice-Captain: Tom Kohler-Cadmore
A high-risk, high-reward combo. If both top-order batters click, expect big returns.
 Backup Options / Bench Picks
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Mitchell Stanley
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Pat Brown
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Ajeet Dale
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Riley Meredith
Watch for last-minute line-up changes; any of these can become valuable if included.
Team Squads
🔵 Northern Superchargers
Zak Crawley, Harry Brook (c), Dawid Malan, David Miller, Rocky Flintoff, Michael-Kyle Pepper (wk), Matthew Potts, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Amir, Adil Rashid, Mitchell Stanley, Pat Brown, Dan Lawrence, James Fuller, Graham Clark, Tom Lawes
🔴 Welsh Fire
Tom Abell (c), Jonny Bairstow, Steve Smith, Luke Wells, Tom Kohler-Cadmore (wk), Paul Walter, Chris Green, Josh Hull, Ajeet Dale, Riley Meredith, David Payne, Saif Zaib, Mason Crane, Stephen Eskinazi, Ben Kellaway
 Match Prediction: Who Has the Edge?
On paper, Northern Superchargers look like the more settled team. They have a strong top order, world-class spin, and home advantage. However, Welsh Fire cannot be underestimated. Their international trio of Bairstow, Smith, and Meredith could flip the game in a matter of deliveries.
 Predicted Result:
Northern Superchargers to win, but expect a close contest.
Key Battle: Harry Brook vs Steve Smith – a clash of generations, styles, and leadership philosophies.
 Final Thoughts
The Hundred 2025 begins with a blockbuster as the Northern Superchargers and Welsh Fire go toe-to-toe at Headingley. With world-class stars on display and national team captains involved, this isn’t just a season opener—it’s a statement of intent.
As the crowd roars under the Leeds skyline, cricket’s shortest format will once again show why it’s becoming the most thrilling spectacle in the game.
Let the Hundred madness begin.
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