Derbyshire Falcons have named a 14-man squad as they return to NatWest T20 Blast action versus Durham Jets at The 3aaa County Ground on Tuesday 15 August; 6.30pm start.
Derbyshire will be aiming to claim their seventh win in the competition against Durham Jets, live on Sky Sports. Before the NatWest T20 Blast fixture, Loughborough Lightning are in Kia Super League action against reigning champions Southern Vipers from 2.30pm.
Tickets will be available on the gate for the double-header, with gates opening at 1pm and spectators able to watch both matches for just £10 for adults and £3 for juniors.
Gary Wilson has joined up with Ireland for an ICC International Cup fixture versus the Netherlands in Dublin. In his absence, the Falcons will be captained by Daryn Smit, who has previous captaincy experience with the Hollywoodbets Dolphins in South Africa.
Matt Critchley returns to the squad after recovering from a mild concussion suffered against Leicestershire at the end of July, in accordance with the ECB’s Return to Play protocol.
Imran Tahir and Hardus Viljoen are the county’s leading wicket takers in the competition with 12 apiece. They will spearhead the attack alongside New Zealand international Matt Henry, who has best figures of 3-18 so far this campaign.
1. Billy Godleman
10. Luis Reece
23. Tom Wood
77. Wayne Madsen
18. Alex Hughes
20. Matt Critchley
2. Callum Brodrick
11. Daryn Smit
21. Matt Henry
7. Hardus Viljoen
8. Tom Milnes
14. Greg Cork
36. Ben Cotton
99. Imran Tahir
Durham Jets head into the fixture as the North Group’s bottom side, but the return of Keaton Jennings adds impetus to their batting lineup.
So far in the competition, the Jets have won three times and suffered nine defeats.
England opener, Jennings returns to Durham after being released from international duty. The powerful opener scored 348 runs in last year’s competition at an average of 43.50.
Paul Collingwood has been in fine form in the competition, already notching 346 runs with a top score of 108 not out. He provides reliable middle order runs alongside Michael Richardson.
Ryan Pringle is the Jets’ leading wicket-taker after 12 matches. The off-spin bowler has taken ten wickets at an average of 24 and will offer a pace off the ball option, alongside the experienced Collingwood.
Jets Squad: To be announced.
Daryn Smit will lead the Derbyshire Falcons against the Durham Jets and the wicketkeeper-batsman hopes the crowd can make a big difference again on Tuesday night at The 3aaa County Ground.
He said: “The crowd has been great so far and it’s no coincidence that we’ve played some of our best cricket at home. We have two big games here this week so hopefully the crowd will create a great atmosphere for us.”
“It’s an absolute privilege being asked to lead the team and I’m looking forward to doing it in a big week as we head into the crunch stage of the competition.”
Matt Critchley returns to a NatWest T20 Blast squad which is well rested and ready to go again in a crucial week of games in chase of a quarter-final spot.
The 33-year-old added: “It will be great to have Critch come back in, he’s offered great impetus for us at the top of the innings and offers that extra role as a leg spinner.
“Both Matt Henry and Imran Tahir bowled yesterday and seemed well rested. We’ll be looking to them to lead the attack alongside Hardus [Viljoen].”
NatWest T20 Blast is back this July and August. Save £4 by purchasing your matchday tickets in advance. While further discounts are available for groups of 10 or more. Buy online today to secure your place and save.
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