Northamptonshire Steelbacks face Derbyshire Falcons at Wantage Road for the final home game of the Vitality Blast group stages.
The Steelbacks were defeated by Leicestershire Foxes yesterday evening which saw them clinging onto their top four spot on net run rate. A Rehan Ahmed inspired performance saw the Foxes home against Darren Lehmann’s side with an unbeaten fifty as the home side romped towards their target of 172 just four wickets down.
Despite five consecutive defeats, Steelbacks remain in the top four and can draw level on points with top spot tonight with a victory. Six straight victories have allowed for this blip to not completely curtail their campaign; however defeat tonight will almost certainly see the home side drop out of the qualification spots for the first time.
On a glorious Friday evening, David Willey’s side will be looking to entertain the home crowd against a Falcons side who sit at the foot of the North Group.
We caught up with Darren Lehmann last night to discuss how he was feeling ahead of the game.
Derbyshire Falcons come into the game off the back of defeat at home to Worcestershire Rapids yesterday evening, however, spirits remain content in the camp after a crushing seven wicket victory against Yorkshire, chasing down 201. Aneurin Donald will hold the key at the top of the order with his explosive runs early in the innings crucial if Derbyshire are to challenge for victory.
Play is set to start at 6:30pm with tickets available on the gate or can be purchased here ready for a crucial night of Vitality Blast action.