Birmingham Phoenix 2025 Players List: History, Records and Achievements

Birmingham Phoenix Men’s History

The Birmingham Phoenix have been one of the most exciting teams in The Hundred since its inception in 2021. Representing a blend of Warwickshire and Worcestershire counties and based at the iconic Edgbaston Stadium, the franchise has consistently thrilled fans with their attacking style of cricket. While they made an immediate impact in the inaugural season, the trophy has remained elusive despite some strong campaigns. With a squad built around flair, power-hitters, and homegrown stars, the Phoenix have remained one of the most followed and entertaining sides in the competition.

The team was one of the original eight franchises created by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for their radical 100-ball format. Right from the outset, Birmingham Phoenix embraced the fast-paced nature of the tournament. Their approach in 2021 turned heads across the cricketing world as they stormed into the final with swashbuckling performances. Despite their eventual loss to Southern Brave in the final, the Phoenix had QWlaid down a marker.

Led by Moeen Ali for the first few years and guided by the astute Daniel Vettori as head coach, the side showcased a mix of youthful exuberance and international firepower. Players like Liam Livingstone, Will Smeed, and Benny Howell became household names thanks to their consistent match-winning displays. Livingstone, in particular, became the face of the franchise with his all-round brilliance and explosive hitting.

In the seasons that followed, the Phoenix remained in the mix, reaching the playoffs in 2022 and 2024. Now in 2025, the franchise has made a bold move by handing the captaincy to Liam Livingstone, a fan favourite and one of the most consistent performers since the tournament began. With Vettori continuing as head coach and a refreshed squad around him, Livingstone has the challenge and opportunity to finally take Birmingham Phoenix all the way and lift their first-ever Hundred title.

Birmingham Phoenix Men’s Journey in The Hundred (Season-by-Season)

Birmingham Phoenix Men’s Captains and Vice-Captains Over the Years

Since the launch of The Hundred in 2021, Birmingham Phoenix have developed a reputation for playing aggressive and entertaining cricket a style that has become synonymous with their leadership group. While the team has experimented with a few captains due to injuries and availability, there has been one name that has consistently led from the front, Moeen Ali. The England all-rounder captained the Phoenix in every season from 2021 to 2024 and was pivotal in shaping the identity and style of the franchise.

Known for his calm demeanour and attacking instincts, Moeen was appointed as the inaugural captain of the side and immediately left an impact by guiding them to the final in 2021. Despite falling short against Southern Brave, the Phoenix under Moeen emerged as one of the most watchable sides in the competition. His leadership, both tactical and cultural, set the tone for Birmingham Phoenix’s brand of fearless cricket.

Backing Moeen through these seasons were dependable vice-captains, including the likes of Liam Livingstone and Benny Howell two players who’ve stepped up as leaders whenever called upon. While Moeen was the mainstay, both Livingstone and Howell briefly led the side during his absence, ensuring stability and continuity.

Now in 2025, there is a fresh twist in the Phoenix story. Liam Livingstone, one of the team’s longest-serving and most explosive performers, has been handed the captaincy reins. Having previously captained in 2021 for two matches when Moeen was unavailable, Livingstone is no stranger to the responsibilities. This time, however, the role is permanent and the expectations are high as he looks to lead Phoenix to their maiden Hundred title.

Let’s take a closer look at Birmingham Phoenix’s captain and vice-captain combinations over the years:

Moeen Ali (Captain: 2021–2024)

Moeen Ali was the face of Birmingham Phoenix leadership for the first four seasons of The Hundred. His attacking instincts as a batter, combined with his calm leadership style, helped the franchise establish a clear identity. Under his leadership, the Phoenix reached the final in the inaugural edition and made the playoffs in two of the next three seasons.

Moeen’s contribution went beyond just results. He helped shape the squad, nurtured emerging stars, and maintained a positive team culture. He remains one of the most influential leaders in the team’s history. With his retirement the captaincy baton is now passed over to Liam Livingstone. 

Liam Livingstone (Captain: 2021 [stand-in], 2025–present)

Liam Livingstone’s explosive performances with bat and ball made him a natural choice as Moeen’s deputy. He captained twice in 2021 when Moeen was unavailable and impressed with two wins from two matches. Now, in 2025, he steps into the full-time captaincy role — a move welcomed by fans and experts alike.

Liam Livingstone’s Record (as captain so far):

This season marks a new era for Birmingham Phoenix, and all eyes will be on Livingstone to convert his personal brilliance into collective success.

Birmingham Phoenix Men’s Squad 2025

Birmingham Phoenix The Hundred Men’s Fixture and Schedule 2025

Birmingham Phoenix Men’s Administration and Support Staff 2025

Birmingham Phoenix Men’s Achievements and Records

Since the inaugural season of The Hundred in 2021, Birmingham Phoenix have been one of the competition’s most entertaining and consistent sides. Representing the cricketing heartlands of Warwickshire and Worcestershire and based at the iconic Edgbaston Stadium, the Phoenix quickly made their mark with their fearless brand of cricket.

The Phoenix’s best campaign came in the very first season when they stormed into the 2021 final with a powerful display of attacking cricket. Despite falling short to Southern Brave in the final, their run to the summit clash was a statement of intent and introduced fans to their aggressive approach. 

Here’s a look at all the achievements and records of the Birmingham Phoenix. 

Birmingham Phoenix Team Records (As of July 2025)

Birmingham Phoenix’s team records highlight their explosive style of play and competitive presence in The Hundred. Their highest team total of 185/5 came against London Spirit in 2023, reflecting their batting depth and power. However, their lowest total a shocking 75 all out against Manchester Originals in 2022 shows they’ve had their share of off days too. With three playoff appearances (2021, 2022, 2024) and one final appearance in 2021, they’ve remained consistent contenders, even if the title has eluded them so far. Their best league finish remains 2nd place in 2021.

Birmingham Phoenix Individual Records (As of July 2025)

Liam Livingstone stands out as Birmingham Phoenix’s premier performer with the most runs (755), most sixes (52), and most fifties (5), underlining his central role in the team’s batting lineup. Will Smeed holds the record for the highest individual score, a stunning unbeaten 101* against Southern Brave in 2022 and also leads in catches with 12. On the bowling front, Adam Milne is the most successful with 34 wickets, while Tim Southee’s fiery 5/12 against Trent Rockets in 2024 is the best individual bowling effort in Phoenix history.

Birmingham Phoenix Key Rivalries

Since the beginning of The Hundred in 2021, Birmingham Phoenix have emerged as one of the most entertaining sides in the competition. Based at Edgbaston, a venue known for its passionate fans and electric atmosphere, the Phoenix have forged several fierce rivalries over the years. Whether it’s due to geographical proximity, high-stakes encounters, or closely contested matches, these rivalries have helped shape the narrative of the tournament and provided some unforgettable moments. Here’s a look at the key rivalries that define Birmingham Phoenix’s journey in The Hundred so far.

Birmingham Phoenix vs Southern Brave

This rivalry kicked off with a bang in the inaugural season of The Hundred, as Southern Brave defeated Birmingham Phoenix in the final to lift the first-ever men’s title. That heartbreaking loss immediately gave this fixture a charged atmosphere, with Birmingham eager to get revenge in subsequent seasons. Both sides have consistently featured in playoff discussions, and their clashes often have knockout-level intensity.

The Birmingham Phoenix for most part of this rivalry have been left frustrated as they have been comprehensively beaten by the Southern Brave. 

Birmingham Phoenix vs Trent Rockets 

The Midlands derby between Birmingham Phoenix and Trent Rockets is one of the most eagerly awaited fixtures on the calendar. With both teams representing historic cricketing counties Warwickshire/Worcestershire for Phoenix and Nottinghamshire for Rockets,  the rivalry carries both geographical and cultural significance. These matches are known for high scores, passionate crowds, and moments of brilliance from big-name players on both sides.

The Birmingham Phoenix holds the bragging rights in the midland having won 71% of the Derbies played between the two sides in the four seasons till now. They would want to carry that momentum in 2025 as well. 

Birmingham Phoenix vs Northern Superchargers

This has become one of the more underrated yet exciting rivalries in The Hundred. With both teams loaded with attacking batters, their games have often been high-scoring affairs. What makes this matchup intriguing is the battle of styles. 

The Birmingham Phoenix have emerged victorious against the Northern Superchargers on two out of the three occasions both these sides have locked horns against each other. 

Birmingham Phoenix vs Manchester Originals

Another intense rivalry has developed between Birmingham Phoenix and Manchester Originals two sides that have been constant playoff threats. The matches between these two have often been unpredictable, with each side boasting explosive top orders and fast-paced bowling attacks. This rivalry has delivered both dramatic collapses and run-fests, making it a favourite 

among neutral fans.

The Birmingham Phoenix would like to improve upon their record from the previous seasons against the Manchester Originals heading into the 2025 season. The Phoenix have only won one game and lost three to the Originals. 

Birmingham Phoenix Team Owners and Sponsorships

Since their debut in The Hundred in 2021, Birmingham Phoenix have been a bold, aggressive side on the field, and off the field, their evolution has followed an equally dynamic path. From being fully operated by Warwickshire County Cricket Club in the tournament's formative years to welcoming private investment in 2025, Birmingham Phoenix have adapted to the changing face of franchise cricket. 

Owners: Warwickshire CCC and Knighthead Capital

In the first four editions of The Hundred (2021–2024), Birmingham Phoenix were fully owned and managed by Warwickshire County Cricket Club, one of England’s most historic and respected first-class counties. Representing both Warwickshire and Worcestershire cricketing regions, the Phoenix were built on Edgbaston’s proud cricketing legacy. Warwickshire CCC ensured strong team foundations by investing in infrastructure, player development, and community engagement while also playing a key role in cultivating a vibrant fanbase in the Midlands.

However, ahead of the 2025 season, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) introduced a pivotal shift by inviting private investment into The Hundred. The move aimed to secure long-term financial stability and inject new commercial energy into the competition. As part of this strategic transformation, Warwickshire CCC sold a 49% stake in Birmingham Phoenix to Knighthead Capital Management LLC, a US-based investment firm, for a staggering £41 million, effectively valuing the franchise at £82 million.

Knighthead Capital are no strangers to the city of Birmingham. They already own Birmingham City FC, and their high-profile association with NFL legend Tom Brady has drawn global attention. Brady, a minority stakeholder in Birmingham City, could now have an active role or symbolic presence with the Phoenix franchise as well, bringing transatlantic appeal and media spotlight to both the team and the tournament.

Led by co-founder Tom Wagner, Knighthead’s investment is more than just financial. They have promised to help create a broader sporting ecosystem in Birmingham, with plans for a massive new “sports quarter” in the city. Their involvement with Phoenix is expected to bolster marketing, fan engagement, global branding, and stadium development opportunities. This partnership marks the beginning of a new era where Birmingham Phoenix are no longer just a regional team, but one with serious international aspirations.

The ECB continues to oversee the tournament and hold regulatory control, but with Warwickshire’s cricketing roots and Knighthead’s financial muscle now intertwined, the Phoenix are uniquely placed to grow into a global T20-style franchise.

Birmingham Phoenix Sponsors

Title Sponsor: Butterkist

In 2025, Birmingham Phoenix welcomed Butterkist as their official title sponsor, a move that perfectly encapsulates the team’s fun, energetic, and family-friendly vibe. Known as the UK’s number one popcorn brand, Butterkist’s association with the Phoenix is a match made for the modern cricket audience – vibrant, youthful, and all about entertainment. 

Past and Present Principal Sponsors and Partners

Birmingham Phoenix Fan Following

Birmingham Phoenix have quickly carved out a distinct identity in The Hundred, and a major part of that has been the passionate and growing fan base they’ve built since the tournament’s launch in 2021. While The Hundred is still establishing itself on the global franchise cricket map, Phoenix have stood out with their aggressive brand of cricket, loyal regional backing, and now, a dose of international star power.

From day one, Phoenix captured attention with their all-out attacking approach in the 2021 season, storming their way to the final in thrilling fashion. That bold playing style resonated with fans, and Edgbaston, their home ground, soon became one of the loudest and most intimidating venues in the league. Known for its charged atmosphere in international cricket, Edgbaston brings the same edge and noise to Hundred matches, creating a fortress-like environment for Phoenix games.

Being a team that represents both Warwickshire and Worcestershire counties, Birmingham Phoenix benefit from a vast regional support base that extends across the West Midlands. Their orange kits, vibrant social media campaigns, and emphasis on explosive cricket have made them one of the most exciting teams to follow. Even during seasons where they missed out on the title, the fan backing has remained solid.

The 2025 season has given the fan base even more to cheer about, with Knighthead Capital Management LLC acquiring a 49% stake in the franchise. Knighthead, already owners of Birmingham City FC, bring a new level of commercial vision and global exposure. Crucially, NFL icon Tom Brady is associated with Knighthead, and his presence has added a fresh layer of star power and international appeal. His existing connection with the city through Birmingham City Football Club is expected to help attract American fans and create crossover interest from non-cricketing audiences.