Gloucestershire Crush Sussex to Reach Vitality Blast Final

Gloucestershire Crush Sussex to Reach Vitality Blast Final

Gloucestershire’s dominance in the Vitality Blast continued as they secured a resounding eight-wicket victory over Sussex in the second semi-final at Edgbaston. The triumph sets up a thrilling West Country showdown with local rivals Somerset in the final, giving Gloucestershire a chance to claim their first silverware in nearly a decade.

Sussex’s batting woes began early as David Payne’s swing proved too much for Daniel Hughes, who was dismissed for just one run. Matt Taylor then joined the party, claiming the wickets of Harrison Ward and James Coles to leave Sussex reeling at 35 for 4 after the powerplay.

Ollie Price and Tom Smith continued the onslaught, with Price dismissing Tom Clark and Fynn Hudson-Prentice. Smith then removed John Simpson and Ollie Robinson, leaving Sussex stranded on 64 for 7.

Jack Carson and Ollie Robinson briefly rallied, adding 37 runs, but Smith returned to dismiss Robinson and James Bracey completed a stumping to remove Tymal Mills. Payne wrapped up the innings in the 18th over, conceding just nine runs in a stellar display.

Gloucestershire’s chase was far less eventful. Despite losing Miles Hammond early, Cameron Bancroft and James Bracey put on a 54-run partnership to break the back of the chase. Bracey sealed the victory with a mighty six over long-off, securing Gloucestershire’s place in the final with 38 balls to spare.

Sussex Seal Innings Victory over Glamorgan, Eyeing Division One Return

Sussex Seal Innings Victory over Glamorgan, Eyeing Division One Return

Sussex’s relentless pursuit of a return to Division One of the Vitality County Championship reached a crescendo as they secured their seventh victory of the season with a dominant innings and 87-run triumph over Glamorgan.

Having amassed a formidable 491 in their first innings, Sussex’s bowlers proved equally formidable, dismissing Glamorgan for 218 in their second innings. Colin Ingram and Kiran Carlson provided some resistance with half-centuries, but Sussex’s relentless attack chipped away at the Glamorgan batting lineup.

Ollie Robinson, Henry Crocombe, and Jack Carson each claimed three wickets, with Carson extending his tally as the division’s leading wicket-taker to 45. Glamorgan’s second innings began with a setback as Jaydev Unadkat struck in his opening over, removing Asa Tribe.

Carson’s absence due to a back injury saw Robinson step up with an impressive nine-over spell, while Crocombe struck twice in quick succession to dismiss Billy Root and Ingram. Sam Northeast’s brief stay at the crease ended when he misjudged a short ball, handing James Coles a simple catch.

Carlson and Kellaway briefly threatened a partnership, but Sussex regained control after a rain delay. Kellaway missed a reverse sweep, and Carson struck again to remove Carlson, who had notched his eighth fifty of the season.

Carson and James Coles combined to slow Glamorgan’s scoring rate, allowing Robinson to return and clean up the tail. Chris Cooke, James Harris, and Andy Gorvin all fell victim to Robinson’s pace, while Crocombe wrapped up the innings by removing Dan Douthwaite.

Earlier, Tom Clark completed his third first-class century, remaining unbeaten on 112 as Sussex declared on 491. Clark and skipper John Simpson had extended their sixth-wicket partnership to 213 before Simpson fell for 117. Kellaway claimed a maiden five-for, dismissing Robinson with a paddle sweep.

Sussex’s victory consolidates their position at the top of Division Two and brings them closer to a return to the top flight of English county cricket.

Sussex Dominate Glamorgan on Day One, Promotion in Sight

Sussex Dominate Glamorgan on Day One, Promotion in Sight

Sussex, aiming to secure promotion to the first division of the Vitality County Championship, made a strong start against Glamorgan at Hove. Left-arm seamer Jaydev Unadkat led the charge with a four-wicket haul, dismissing Asa Tribe, Sam Northeast, Colin Ingram, and Billy Root.

Glamorgan, seeking their first Championship victory at Hove since 1975, struggled in the field as Tom Haines and Daniel Hughes put on a century partnership for the first wicket. Haines fell just before the close, but Hughes remained unbeaten on 57.

Sussex’s decision to bowl first on an overcast morning proved fruitful. Unadkat struck early, removing Tribe and Northeast in his opening overs. Henry Crocombe then dismissed Ingram and Root, leaving Glamorgan reeling at 70 for 4.

After lunch, part-time bowler Tom Clark struck twice in quick succession, dismissing Ben Kellaway and Kiran Carlson. Chris Cooke was bowled by Ollie Robinson, and Glamorgan looked set to fold quickly.

However, Dan Douthwaite and James Harris put up a spirited resistance, adding 49 runs for the eighth wicket. Unadkat eventually broke the partnership, dismissing Douthwaite and Andy Gorvin in quick succession. Harris was bowled by Jack Carson, and Glamorgan were all out for 186.

Sussex’s openers made a solid start in reply, with Haines and Hughes putting on 110 for the first wicket. Haines fell just before the close, but Hughes remained unbeaten on 57. Sussex ended the day on 121 for 1, trailing by just 65 runs with nine wickets in hand.

Sussex Captain Mills Delighted but Frustrated by Archer's Finals Day Absence

Sussex Captain Mills Delighted but Frustrated by Archer’s Finals Day Absence

Tymal Mills, the newly appointed T20 captain of Sussex, expressed both delight and frustration as his team secured a spot in Finals Day. While thrilled with their performance, Mills lamented the absence of Jofra Archer due to a scheduling conflict.

Mills described the scheduling clash as “pretty stupid” and “a real shame,” as it will prevent England players from participating in Finals Day, which will be held on September 14. The ECB is exploring options, but players will only be released if they are not required for the final two T20Is against Australia.

Mills acknowledged that the absence of Archer, who took 2 for 20 in Sussex’s quarter-final win over Lancashire, will be a significant loss. He emphasized that whoever replaces Archer will have “big boots to fill.”

Surrey, who defeated Durham in the quarter-finals, will be the most affected by the scheduling conflict. Jamie Overton has been called up by England as injury cover, joining Sam Curran, Will Jacks, and Reece Topley in the T20I squad. Surrey is awaiting confirmation on the availability of their four Test players: Gus Atkinson, Dan Lawrence, Ollie Pope, and Jamie Smith.

Mills expressed disappointment that other counties, such as Warwickshire, will also be without key players due to England’s T20I commitments. He believes that the scheduling conflict undermines the importance of Finals Day.

Despite the scheduling challenges, Mills praised Sussex’s performance under his leadership. After missing out on the quarter-finals in 2023, Sussex has won 10 out of 15 games this season. Mills attributed their success to their aggressive batting approach and improved record at Hove.

Mills emphasized his commitment to Sussex and his desire to win the Blast for the club. He believes that the team has the potential to succeed and is confident in their ability to perform well at Finals Day.

Ollie Robinson Stars as Sussex Crush Lancashire in T20 Blast Quarterfinal

Ollie Robinson Stars as Sussex Crush Lancashire in T20 Blast Quarterfinal

Ollie Robinson’s stellar performance propelled Sussex to a resounding eight-wicket victory over Lancashire in the T20 Blast quarterfinal at a sold-out Hove. Robinson, who was overlooked for England’s Test squad, showcased his exceptional bowling skills, claiming two crucial wickets and executing a pinpoint run-out of Liam Livingstone.

Despite Lancashire fielding seven internationals, Sussex dominated the match from the outset. Robinson struck with the first ball, dismissing Phil Salt, and later yorked Keaton Jennings to trigger a collapse. Livingstone briefly threatened with two sixes, but Robinson’s direct hit ended his innings on 43.

Sussex’s bowlers, including Brad Currie, James Coles, and Jack Carson, kept Lancashire’s batsmen in check, restricting them to a mere 114 runs. Robinson’s 18 Blast wickets this season, coupled with his impressive Championship record, have solidified his status as a formidable bowler.

Sussex captain Tymal Mills praised Robinson’s contributions, highlighting his exceptional new-ball bowling and fielding skills. Mills believes Robinson’s performance will enhance his reputation on the franchise circuit.

Despite missing Jos Buttler, Lancashire’s batting lineup failed to deliver, with Robinson’s bowling proving too potent. Sussex’s victory marks a significant turnaround from their struggles two years ago, when they finished near the bottom of the County Championship.

The County Ground was packed to capacity, with the crowd enthusiastically welcoming former Sussex players Salt and Luke Wells. Sussex will face a tough challenge at Edgbaston without Jofra Archer, who is unavailable due to England’s T20I series against Australia. However, their impressive performance in the quarterfinal has instilled confidence that they can end their 15-year wait for the Blast title.

Sussex Dominate Derbyshire with Carson's Match-Winning Performance

Sussex Dominate Derbyshire with Carson’s Match-Winning Performance

Sussex’s dominance in the Vitality Championship’s second division continued as they secured a resounding innings and 59-run victory over Derbyshire, their sixth triumph of the season. The victory solidifies their position at the top of the standings, with two home games remaining and a clear path to the title.

Off-spinner Jack Carson emerged as the star performer for Sussex, contributing both with the bat and ball. His innings of 97 was followed by match figures of 11 for 157, the best return of his career. His second-innings haul of 6 for 67 was another personal best, bringing his wicket tally to 20 in the past two games.

Derbyshire’s resistance was led by Harry Came and Wayne Madsen, but their efforts proved futile as they lost their last eight wickets for just 54 runs in 25 overs. The match marked a return to form for Sussex after their heavy defeat to Glamorgan.

On the final morning, Derbyshire resumed on 141 for 2, needing 176 runs to avoid batting again. Came and Madsen showed resilience, but the introduction of the new ball proved decisive. Jaydev Unadkat struck twice in quick succession, dismissing Madsen and David Lloyd, turning the tide in Sussex’s favor.

Carson continued the onslaught, removing Came and Zak Chappell in quick succession. Aneurin Donald’s aggressive approach backfired as he was caught at backward square leg, and Jack Morley followed suit. Carson then claimed Daryn Dupavillon and Anuj Dal to complete his match-winning performance.

Sussex’s victory extends their lead in the second division, and with two home games remaining, they are now firm favorites to secure the title.

Sussex Dominate Derbyshire with Mammoth Total and Early Wickets

Sussex Dominate Derbyshire with Mammoth Total and Early Wickets

Sussex tightened their grip on the Vitality County Championship promotion race with a dominant display against Derbyshire at Hove. The second division leaders piled up a mammoth 607 for 8 declared, their highest total against Derbyshire, before reducing the visitors to 178 for 6, a deficit of 429 runs.

Sussex’s batting onslaught was led by skipper Ben Brown, who smashed 121 off 167 balls, including a six and 13 fours. He reached 10,000 first-class career runs in the process. Tom Haines (72), Alsop (70), and Carson (97) also made significant contributions.

Derbyshire’s bowlers struggled to contain Sussex’s free-flowing batting, with Daryn Dupavillon and Zak Chappell conceding 100 runs in the first 10 overs of the day.

In reply, Derbyshire’s top order collapsed under the pressure of Sussex’s bowling attack. Indian left-armer Jaydev Unadkat, back at Sussex for the run-in, took 3 for 19 in a skillful opening spell.

Wayne Madsen (79*) held firm for Derbyshire, but he lacked support from his teammates. Aneurin Donald (45) and Anuj Dal (45) provided some resistance, but Carson’s off-spin proved too much for them.

Sussex’s declaration came after they secured the maximum five batting bonus points, putting them in a commanding position. Derbyshire face an uphill task to avoid defeat on day three.

Sussex Dominate Day One Against Derbyshire with Hughes Century

Sussex Dominate Day One Against Derbyshire with Hughes Century

Sussex, the second division leaders, established a commanding position on day one of their match against Derbyshire at Hove, thanks to a dominant batting performance led by Australian Daniel Hughes.

Hughes, who has already confirmed his return to Sussex next season, struck a magnificent 144 off 142 balls, including 18 fours and three sixes. He shared a 196-run opening partnership with Tom Haines, who contributed 72.

After Hughes’ departure, Tom Alsop continued the onslaught, hitting an unbeaten 69 as Sussex closed on 391 for 4. The hosts’ strong start was a welcome response after their only second defeat of the season to promotion rivals Yorkshire last week.

Derbyshire skipper David Lloyd’s decision to bowl first backfired as his seamers struggled for consistency, particularly before lunch. Hughes and Haines took full advantage, plundering 161 runs from 28 overs.

Hughes reached his ninth first-class hundred just after lunch, but his innings ended prematurely when he under-edged a delivery from Daryn Dupavillon to keeper Brooke Guest.

Haines departed for 72 when he drove loosely at Zak Chappell, while Tom Clark fell to left-armer spinner Jack Morley. However, Alsop remained unfazed, adding 66 for the fourth wicket with James Coles and 39 for the fifth wicket with captain John Simpson.

Sussex will resume tomorrow in a strong position, with Alsop and Simpson at the crease and Derbyshire facing an uphill task to contain the hosts’ batting onslaught.

Jos Buttler Targets Lancashire Return in T20 Blast Quarter-Final

Jos Buttler Targets Lancashire Return in T20 Blast Quarter-Final

Jos Buttler, England’s white-ball captain, is targeting a return to action in Lancashire’s T20 Blast quarter-final against Sussex on September 4. Buttler has been sidelined since the T20 World Cup due to a calf injury but has been working diligently to regain fitness.

Buttler’s return is a major boost for Lancashire, who are battling to avoid relegation in the County Championship and have struggled in the Metro Bank Cup. The T20 Blast represents their best chance of salvaging their season and reaching Finals Day.

Lancashire coach Dale Benkenstein is optimistic about Buttler’s availability, stating that he has been “doing a lot of rehab” and is “very keen to play.” A fitness test on the day of the match will determine his participation.

Buttler’s return will also be a welcome sight for England, who face Australia in a T20I and ODI series in September. Buttler has been backed to continue as England’s white-ball captain despite the departure of head coach Matthew Mott. He will work alongside interim coach Marcus Trescothick during the series.

Lancashire will also be bolstered by the return of Saqib Mahmood and Phil Salt, who were rested for the Championship defeat to Surrey. Liam Livingstone and George Dockrell are also expected to be available.

Mahmood’s workload is being carefully managed after two injury-plagued summers, while Salt has been nursing a back injury. Benkenstein believes that having a full-strength team for the knockout stages gives Lancashire a “best chance” of reaching Finals Day.

However, Buttler and other England players named in the T20 squad will not be available for Finals Day on September 14, which clashes with the second and third T20Is against Australia.

Yorkshire Clinch Four-Wicket Victory over Sussex, Boosting Promotion Hopes

Yorkshire Clinch Four-Wicket Victory over Sussex, Boosting Promotion Hopes

Yorkshire’s relentless pursuit of promotion in the Vitality County Championship Division Two culminated in a resounding four-wicket victory over league leaders Sussex at Scarborough. Resuming on 28 for 2, the home side chased down the modest target of 103 in just an hour’s play, despite losing four wickets to offspinner Jack Carson.

Opener Adam Lyth led the charge with a brisk 40, setting the tone with a flurry of boundaries off Jaydev Unadkat and Carson. His aggressive approach, including two sixes, propelled Yorkshire to 59 for 2 and put Sussex on the back foot.

Nightwatchman Dan Moriarty provided valuable support to Lyth, contributing 17 to a crucial third-wicket partnership of 51. Their resilience extinguished Sussex’s hopes of a comeback and laid the foundation for Yorkshire’s eventual triumph.

Carson, who had taken 5 for 48 in Sussex’s first innings, continued to impress with the ball. He claimed the wickets of Moriarty, Lyth, and James Wharton, but his efforts proved futile as Yorkshire closed in on victory.

Jonny Bairstow, who had scored a half-century in the first innings, was dismissed for a two-ball duck, but Yorkshire captain Jonny Tattersall hit the winning runs to seal a 21-point haul.

The victory propelled Yorkshire to second place in the Division Two standings, just nine points behind Sussex with four rounds remaining. It marked their third consecutive Championship victory, a feat they last achieved in 2021.

Sussex, who had only lost once in 10 matches this season, suffered a setback in their pursuit of the title. They will look to bounce back when they host Derbyshire at Hove, while Yorkshire faces a crucial clash against Middlesex at Headingley.

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