Liam Livingstone produced one of the most electrifying performances of the season, guiding the Birmingham Phoenix to a crucial victory after being subjected to an on-field ‘fat slob’ sledge. The England all-rounder responded in the most emphatic way possible, smashing a rapid half-century that turned the match in Phoenix’s favour.
The incident unfolded during a tense clash in The Hundred, when an opposing player’s comment appeared to target Livingstone’s fitness. Instead of reacting negatively, Livingstone channelled the energy into his batting, unleashing a flurry of boundaries and towering sixes that left the opposition stunned. His aggressive approach not only silenced the crowd’s murmurs but also put his team on the front foot.
Speaking after the match, Livingstone addressed the remark with a touch of humour, saying, “If that’s what it takes to get me going, maybe they should say it more often.” However, he also stressed that such comments should be kept away from the sport, reminding players to maintain respect on and off the field.
This victory was more than just two points for Birmingham Phoenix — it was a morale booster. The side had been struggling for consistency, and Livingstone’s innings served as a statement of intent for the rest of the tournament. His ability to soak up pressure and then explode into match-winning form has long been one of his trademarks, and this innings will likely be remembered as one of his most satisfying performances.
Cricket fans took to social media to praise Livingstone’s mental toughness, with many noting how the sledge had backfired. Memes, highlights, and supportive messages flooded platforms within minutes of the game ending, with hashtags like #LivingstonePower and #PhoenixRising trending among fans.
The Birmingham Phoenix coach hailed Livingstone’s innings as “a masterclass in focus and determination.” He also highlighted the importance of the team rallying together, as strong partnerships in the middle overs kept the momentum alive.
With the win, Birmingham Phoenix climbed higher in the standings, keeping their hopes alive for a playoff berth. For Livingstone, the match was a reminder that criticism, whether fair or not, can be transformed into a powerful motivator.
As the tournament moves forward, all eyes will be on whether the ‘fat slob’ sledge becomes a footnote in Livingstone’s story — or the spark that ignited his most dominant run of form yet.
