Melie Kerr played a pivotal role with an unbeaten 69 to guide MI London to their first victory of the 2026 campaign, a three-run win over London Spirit in The Hundred women's competition. The win keeps MI London's slim qualification hopes alive.
MI London, who had lost their previous five matches, faced early elimination after slumping to 23-5 and later 64-8. However, Kerr's resilient performance, featuring 69 runs from 41 balls, propelled her team to a total of 122-9.
In the subsequent bowling innings, MI London's bowlers reduced London Spirit to 51-4. A partnership of 42 between Nadine de Klerk, who scored 35, and Marizanne Kapp offered a recovery for Spirit. However, the departure of De Klerk shifted the momentum back to MI London.
With 15 runs required from the final six balls, London Spirit promoted Charis Pavely and Katie George ahead of Deandra Dottin. Although Dottin managed consecutive fours, Nicola Carey secured the victory for MI London by restricting Spirit to 119-8.
Kerr's innings was significant, as she had not hit a six in The Hundred prior to this match, but she clubbed four in this game along with five fours. She was supported by Chinelle Henry, who added 22 runs off 15 balls, the only other MI London batter to reach double figures.
Spirit captain Charlie Dean had a notable spell with the ball, taking three wickets in five deliveries, dismissing Hollie Armitage, Nicola Carey, and Alice Monaghan without scoring. Kerr managed to score 26 crucial runs in the final 10 balls of the innings, including three sixes off Dean.
Despite the victory, MI London's advancement to the next stage is not guaranteed and depends on winning their remaining matches and favorable results from other fixtures. London Spirit faces a similar scenario.