The Hundred 2022: Three Welsh Fire players to watch out for

The opening game of The Hundred 2022 will see Welsh Fire taking on the defending champions Southern Brave. 

Welsh Fire couldn't qualify for the playoffs last year

Welsh Fire had a dismal campaign last season, losing five of their eight league encounters. However, they are empowered with some fantastic match-winners and will be hoping to change their fortunes in this year's tournament. 

Before the Fire's cracking contest with South Brave starts, let's have a look at their three key players to watch out for. 

Ben Duckett

Hailed as a powerful hitter of the ball, Ben Duckett was the only shining light for Welsh Fire last season. The swashbuckling southpaw emerged as the tournament's second best batter last year, with 232 runs at a superb strike rate of 137.27. 

Further, the 27-year-old was the top scorer for Nottinghamshire in T20 Blast 2022, slamming 396 runs at a fabulous strike rate of 160.32. He had a BPB (Balls Per Boundary) value of mere 4.04, suggesting his incredible boundary hitting ability.

Tom Banton

Regarded as one of the finest young talents in England, Tom Banton's exploits in the shortest format is well-known to everyone. 

Banton played some impactful knocks in T20 Blast 2022

The stylish right-hander amassed 359 runs at a decent strike rate of 129.13 in the recently concluded Vitality Blast 2022. Although the 23-year-old struggled in the inaugural edition of The Hundred, he has incredible potential to swing the game into his team's favour in a quick time. Moreover, in Bairstow's absence, Welsh Fire would want Banton to give them a solid start at the top.  

Adam Zampa

Their bowlers' abysmal performance was a major reason behind Welsh Fire's disappointing campaign last season. This year, they have drafted Adam Zampa in to the squad to strengthen their bowling unit. 

The experienced leg spinner played a vital role in Australia's World Cup triumph last year, picking 13 wickets at a surreal economy of 5.81. He is a genuine wicket taker and his battle against the Brave's monstrous hitters will be interesting. 

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