Durham Crush Birmingham Bears to Maintain Vitality Blast Momentum

Durham's Vitality Blast campaign gained further momentum with a resounding 26-run victory over Birmingham Bears, following their triumph over Leicestershire Foxes the previous day.

At Edgbaston, Durham amassed an imposing 194 for nine, led by David Bedingham's scintillating 63 from 27 deliveries. The South African opener smashed George Garton for 18 runs in four balls and reached his half-century in just 21 balls. Dan Mousley, who has impressed England selectors with his white-ball performances, claimed two wickets for 23 runs in four overs.

Birmingham's chase faltered at 168 all out in 18.4 overs, despite Jake Bethell's maiden T20 half-century (50 from 32 balls). Ben Raine's exceptional bowling (5-21 in 3.4 overs) proved decisive, as he claimed crucial wickets at key moments.

Durham's victory keeps the North Division table competitive, with both teams having won two and lost two matches. The Bears, on the other hand, suffered back-to-back defeats.

After opting to bat, Durham lost Graham Clark early on, but Bedingham's arrival at the crease sparked a flurry of runs. He and Alex Lees put on a 60-run partnership before Lees departed for eight. Bedingham continued his onslaught, reaching his half-century with a six over mid-wicket.

Jake Lintott dismissed Bedingham and Ollie Robinson, but Ashton Turner's 33 (24) helped Durham maintain their momentum. Matty Potts provided a late surge with a six and a four in the final over.

Birmingham's reply began promisingly, with Alex Davies and Mousley forming an 80-run partnership. However, Raine's intervention proved pivotal, as he dismissed both batsmen in quick succession. Sam Hain and Chris Benjamin fell cheaply, leaving Bethell to lead the chase.

Bethell reached his half-century but was dismissed by Potts, and Hasan Ali followed suit. Raine returned to bowl Jake Lintott and George Garton, completing a comprehensive victory for Durham.

Tags: #VitalityBlast, #Durham, #BirminghamBears, #DavidBedingham, #BenRaine