Cricket Prediction | MO vs SB | The Hundred 2025 | 2nd Match | Aug 06 – Is Batting First the Key Today?

MO vs SB Match Analysis

Forget the forecast—Old Trafford’s heating up as Manchester Originals and Southern Brave bring the fire in Match 2 of The Hundred 2025! The match is scheduled to begin in the evening session under the floodlights, creating a classic Hundred atmosphere. 

The Manchester Originals are known for their star power and explosive batting lineup led by Jos Buttler. With a blend of experienced international players and young domestic talent, they are always a team to watch. 

Southern Brave come into the tournament with one of the most balanced squads in the competition. Anchored by experience, they offer a blend of aggressive batting, multi-skilled all-rounders, and a threatening pace arsenal. 

Manchester Originals vs Southern Brave Team Preview & Squads

Manchester Originals

With Jos Buttler at the helm, MO are led by a man who blends T20 intelligence with raw batting firepower. Renowned for his poise and powerful batting, he strengthens the top order with a mix of control and aggression.

The inclusion of Buttler, Salt, and Klaasen gives the Originals a top order packed with explosive potential. Rachin Ravindra adds a left-handed option and all-around stability, while Lewis Gregory and Ben McKinney can provide late-innings punch. 

The return of James Anderson brings legendary control and swing, supported by Marchant de Lange and Josh Tongue for pace and bounce. Noor Ahmad adds a mystery spin option, while Tom Hartley gives them a reliable left-arm orthodox presence. 

In their last outing of the 2024 season, the Originals were completely outplayed by Birmingham Phoenix. Batting first, they could only manage a meagre 41/5 in their 30-ball allocation. Phoenix chased it down with ease, losing just one wicket and finishing the game with 8 balls to spare. The Originals’ batting frailties were brutally exposed in this defeat.

Manchester Originals Squad

Manchester Originals

Jos Buttler (wk), Rachin Ravindra, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Phil Salt, Noor Ahmad, James Anderson, Josh Tongue, Lewis Gregory, Tom Aspinwall, Tom Hartley, Marchant de Lange, Scott Currie, Sonny Baker, Ben McKinney, Matthew Hurst (wk), George Garton

Southern Brave (Men)

James Vince captains the SB with tactical sharpness and elegant stroke play at the top. A consistent run-scorer and calm presence under pressure, Vince is also known for making bold bowling changes when needed. 

The Brave’s top order is loaded with firepower—James Vince, Finn Allen, and Jason Roy can decimate any attack on their day. Middle-order stability comes from Leus du Plooy and Hilton Cartwright, while Laurie Evans and Chris Jordan offer late-hitting ability. 

SB relies on a fierce pace battery of Jofra Archer, Reece Topley, and Tymal Mills, each delivering pace, swing, and sharp death bowling. Spin options like Danny Briggs and Michael Bracewell add balance to the attack. Chris Jordan and Jordan Thompson have plenty of all-round seam options, too.

The dream slipped away for Southern Brave, as Oval Invincibles rose to claim the crown. Despite keeping the opposition to 147/9, their batting lineup failed to build partnerships and was bowled out for 130/7. The chase was in reach but lacked momentum during the middle overs. 

Southern Brave Squad

Southern Brave

Jofra Archer, Reece Topley, James Vince, Finn Allen (wk), Michael Bracewell, Chris Jordan, Jason Roy, Tymal Mills, James Coles, Craig Overton, Leus du Plooy, Laurie Evans (wk), Hilton Cartwright, Toby Albert, Danny Briggs, Jordan Thompson

MO vs SB Outfield Report

Old Trafford, Manchester

Old Trafford is generally favorable to batters early on, but the surface tends to grip as the match progresses, aiding spinners. The bounce is true, allowing stroke players to capitalize during the power play. Expect variation in pace to be key in the second innings.

The weather in Manchester on match day is expected to be cool and overcast, with temperatures hovering around 18–20°C. There is a minor chance of rain early in the evening, but nothing major to disrupt the game. The conditions may help swing bowlers in the first 20 balls.

The highest score at Old Trafford in the Hundred has gone past 180, while sub-100 totals have also occurred when conditions assist the bowlers. Teams generally aim for 140–150 as a competitive first-innings total here. 

Manchester Originals vs Southern Brave Head-to-Head Stats of Last 5 Matches

Southern Brave have had the upper hand, winning 3 of their last 5 matches against the Originals. 

MO vs SB Prediction

According to cricket analysts Southern Brave have a 52% chance of Winning.