Northamptonshire Steelbacks Blast Past Durham in Rain-Hit Vitality Blast Encounter

Northamptonshire Steelbacks secured a crucial Vitality Blast victory over Durham at the Seat Unique Riverside, thanks to a blistering performance from Ashton Agar and Lewis McManus.

Despite a rain-affected match reduced to eight overs per side, Durham posted a competitive 90 for five, with Ashton Turner (36*) and Colin Ackermann (25) leading the charge. However, Agar's explosive 31 and McManus's steady innings guided Northamptonshire to a six-wicket triumph.

With the Steelbacks opting to bowl first, Durham's openers struggled, losing Graham Clark and Alex Lees cheaply. Turner and Jones provided some resistance, but Agar's introduction proved decisive. He dismissed Jones for 16 and Ben Raine for 5, while Turner and Ackermann combined for a 45-run partnership.

Northamptonshire's chase got off to a shaky start with Ben Dwarshuis dismissing David Willey with the first ball. Agar responded with a six and two boundaries, setting the tone for the visitors. He fell for 31, but Breetzke (20) and McManus (16*) ensured the Steelbacks reached their target with six wickets to spare.

This victory puts Northamptonshire in a strong position for qualification, while Durham's hopes rest on favorable results elsewhere.

Tags: #VitalityBlast, #NorthamptonshireSteelbacks, #Durham, #AshtonAgar, #LewisMcManus