Double victory boosts Staffs' T20 hopes

STAFFORDSHIRE boosted their chances of qualifying for the latter stages of the NCCA Twenty20 Cup competition with twin wins over Cheshire.

- By CHRIS TRAVERS

Staffs, cup winners in 2023 and finals-day participants last season, prevailed in both Group One encounters at Nantwich to leave themselves with an excellent opportunity to reach the Super 12s section of the short format later in the summer.

James Kettleborough’s side still have to negotiate a double header against Cumbria to complete their group commitments next month, but their performances at Whitehouse Lane have left them in a promising position.

Staffordshire won the opening encounter over the county border by three wickets as they successfully chased down Cheshire’s 196-7 with three balls to spare.

They made hard work of matters, though, after being 132-4 at the halfway point before Cheshire battled back to arguably nose themselves in front.

But Matthew Morris’ unbeaten 52, plus 12 not out from Liam Hurt, ensured that Staffs kicked off the day in ideal fashion.

There was little doubt about the second match, though, as Staffordshire managed to secure that rare beast of winning two games in a day.

An excellent bowling performance limited Cheshire to 128-9 from their 20 overs, before Nils Priestley and Liam Banks broke the back of the target with a stunning opening stand.

Staffordshire did lose three wickets, but they romped to the winning line as they overhauled their target with more than eight overs to spare.

The day had started with Staffs skipper Kettleborough winning the toss and electing to field first in the derby duel.