Tim Southee took a brilliant 5-12 to set Birmingham Phoenix on their way to a crucial six-wicket win over Trent Rockets at Edgbaston.
The New Zealand seamer struck twice early on to dismiss Tom Banton and Joe Root before claiming three in the last five balls of the innings as Rockets were restricted to 118.
A review denied him a hat-trick after John Turner was initially given out lbw but Southee still finished with the second best figures in The Hundred men’s competition.
Left-hander Tom Alsop was among Southee’s victims but only after making an impressive 51 from 37 balls on debut for the visitors.
Rockets bowlers Turner and Luke Wood were also on hat-tricks as Phoenix were put under pressure at 52-4 in the chase.
But with such a modest target, it only took one partnership to get the hosts back on track and Liam Livingstone (30* from 32 balls) and Jacob Bethell provided it.
A patient, unbroken stand of 68 took Phoenix to victory with seven balls to spare.
The win lifts them up to third and keeps progress to the eliminator in their own hands, while Rockets are now out.
Read More: The Hundred 2024: Tim Southee leads Birmingham Phoenix to key win over Trent Rockets
