Essex Eagles Claim Third Straight Vitality Blast Win Over Middlesex

Essex Eagles soared to their third consecutive Vitality Blast victory, overcoming Middlesex by 16 runs in a rain-soaked South Group encounter at Lord's.

Despite a delayed start due to showers, Essex posted a competitive 129 for 4 in 12.4 overs, with Jordan Cox remaining unbeaten on 31 from 19 deliveries. Middlesex's target was initially revised to 143 from 12 overs, but a subsequent rain stoppage reduced it to 80 from six overs.

Max Holden's valiant 41 from 24 balls proved insufficient for Middlesex, as they fell short on 63 for two. Essex's bowlers, led by Sam Walter's two wickets, kept the home side in check throughout the chase.

Adam Rossington's early aggression set the tone for Essex, but Noah Cornwell's double strike removed both Rossington and Michael Pepper. Dean Elgar's 28 from 17 kept the scoreboard ticking, while Cox's assured knock provided the late impetus.

Ryan Higgins dismissed Walter, but Cox's boundaries off Blake Cullen and Luke Hollman propelled Essex towards a strong total. Rain intervened once more, forcing a lengthy delay.

Upon resumption, Holden and Stephen Eskinazi faced a daunting task, but another downpour halted play before a ball could be bowled. The revised target of 80 from six overs proved too challenging for Middlesex.

Eskinazi's early boundaries gave Middlesex hope, but Walter's crucial wickets of Eskinazi and Higgins extinguished their chances. Holden's efforts kept the contest alive, but Essex's bowlers ultimately prevailed.

Tags: #VitalityBlast, #EssexEagles, #Middlesex, #T20Cricket, #RainAffected