On Thursday, 28 August 2025, one of our Directors, Ed Puddicombe, had the great pleasure of being invited by Ben Nichols of BN-IS to join him for a special day at The Hundred in Southampton.

It turned out to be one of those days where everything that could align did (mostly), from disrupted train travel to unforgettable cricket and curry.

🎯 The Event: Southern Brave vs Welsh Fire at Utilita Bowl

  • The match day was part of the 2025 season of The Hundred, with Southern Brave hosting Welsh Fire at Utilita Bowl, Southampton.

  • On 28 August, there was a double-header format:
    • The women’s match was played earlier in the afternoon (Southern Brave Women beat Welsh Fire Women by 29 runs: 106/8 vs 77/9).
    • Later in the evening (18:30), the men’s match took place. Southern Brave edged a thrilling win by 4 runs (167/7 vs 163/6) over Welsh Fire.

  • The venue, Utilita Bowl, offers hospitality options including private boxes, suite packages, and premium seating.

It was quite the spectacle: two intense matches, excellent cricketing action, and a refined hospitality experience from a private box vantage point.

🚆 Travel Challenges — But Still on Time

As is often the case with rail in the UK, my train journey was disrupted. But I’m glad to report that despite delays and last-minute re-routing, I managed to arrive and join the party in time for both matches.

There’s always something about overcoming small logistic hurdles that makes the experience even more memorable.

🍛 Post-Match Curry & Conversation

After the cricket, we made our way to enjoy a curry, a perfect way to wind down, talk shop, and share impressions of the day’s matches. These informal moments are often the richest: connecting over food, cricket, and future plans.

🤝 Company & Connections

One of my favourite parts of the day was spending time with other BN-IS clients, as well as the BN-IS team, including Lee and Nick. These are the moments when relationships deepen, ideas emerge, and business feels human again.

Thanks to Ben and team for arranging such an excellent outing.

✍️ Final Thoughts

  • The Hundred continues to deliver great drama and entertainment, and offering a women’s & men’s double header makes the day complete.

  • Hospitality in a private box adds that touch of exclusivity and comfort, giving space to network, discuss, and enjoy the sport without compromise.

  • Even when travel doesn’t go smoothly, good company and purpose carry you through.

I’d highly recommend this kind of event to any business looking to blend sport, client engagement, and relationship building. Thanks again to BN-IS for making it possible. Here’s to the next one.