MI London Launch The Hundred Title Defence with Dominant Victory Over SunRisers Leeds

Curran and Pooran Power Defending Champions to Comfortable Opening Win

Defending champions MI London made an emphatic start to their quest for a fourth consecutive The Hundred title, defeating SunRisers Leeds by seven wickets at The Kia Oval. Despite the competition entering a new era with revamped team names, fresh branding, and overseas investment, MI London proved that their winning mentality remains firmly intact.

Chasing 144 for victory, MI London recovered from an early wobble thanks to a sensational unbeaten 93-run partnership between captain Sam Curran and Nicholas Pooran. Curran anchored the innings with an unbeaten 60 off 39 balls, while Pooran produced a breathtaking display of power hitting, smashing 58 not out from just 22 deliveries. Their explosive stand guided the hosts to victory with 16 balls to spare, setting the tone for another title challenge.

Gleeson Leads Clinical Bowling Display

Earlier in the evening, SunRisers Leeds struggled to build sustained momentum after being asked to bat first. Australian all-rounder Mitchell Marsh top-scored with 41 off 27 balls, while Ryan Rickelton added a quickfire 25 and Tom Alsop contributed 31 late in the innings.

The standout performer with the ball was England fast bowler Richard Gleeson, who claimed 4 wickets for 25 runs, dismantling the middle and lower order. Captain Sam Curran also impressed with 2-27, including the crucial dismissal of Marsh, as SunRisers were bowled out for 143 with one ball remaining.

Pooran Changes the Gamev

MI London's chase did not begin smoothly as Brydon Carse removed Will Jacks and Jason Roy early, while James Vince also departed cheaply, leaving the champions under pressure.

However, Pooran immediately shifted the momentum with fearless stroke play. The West Indies star hammered boundaries all around the ground, reaching his half-century in only 19 balls, while Curran calmly controlled the innings from the opposite end. Together they struck 10 fours and eight sixes, ensuring the target was comfortably surpassed without further drama.

Champions Send an Early Warning

Following the victory, Curran praised the experienced voices within the squad and highlighted the importance of starting the campaign strongly. Pooran echoed those sentiments, insisting that winning matches matters more than personal milestones as MI London look to extend their remarkable dominance in The Hundred.

With both bat and ball firing from the opening match, MI London have once again underlined why they remain the team to beat. Their balanced squad, experienced leadership, and explosive batting depth make them serious favourites to lift another trophy at the end of the 2026 season.