Northamptonshire Steelbacks secured an unblemished record in the T20 Blast, successfully chasing 185 to defeat Gloucestershire at Bristol by eight wickets. This victory marked their eighth win from eight matches, cementing their position at the top of the Central and West Group and guaranteeing a home quarter‑final.
David Willey’s 73 and Australia opening batsman Nathan McSweeney’s unbeaten 72 guided the Steelbacks to the target with 16 balls to spare, extending their advantage over second‑placed Gloucestershire.
Lancashire Lightning notched a third straight T20 Blast win at Derbyshire Falcons, edging out the opposition by four runs. New acquisition Pakistan all‑rounder Shadab Khan contributed a half‑century and claimed three wickets.
Surrey’s Josh Philippe and captain Ollie Pope forged a 105‑run partnership for the third wicket, helping the Brown Caps edge the match by seven runs in a high‑scoring encounter at Essex.
Warwickshire Bears continued their white‑ball ascent, clinching a victory over Sussex Sharks in cross‑pool play.
