Express & Star

Bears on track, but Rapids washed out

Birmingham Bears sealed a convincing 15-run win over Vitality T20 Blast North Group leaders Lancashire Lightning.

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Adam Hose starred with the bat for Bears – hitting a mighty seven sixes in an innings of 65 from just 34 balls from a total of 179 for six.

But, after losing their first three wickets for 28, Lightning staged a superb recovery with Glenn Maxwell and Keaton Jennings putting together a century stand which threatened to earn Lancashire an impressive victory.

Maxwell’s dismissal for 79 – when he was bowled by Will Rhodes – brought an end to Lightning’s hopes as they finished on 164 for seven.

And when Jennings fell to Rhodes in the final over for 35, it sealed a much-needed win for Bears, who are now fifth after reviving their own fortunes in the competition.

Meanwhile, Worcestershire Rapids’ home Vitality Blast encounter with Northamptonshire Steelbacks was abandoned without a ball being bowled.

Play had been scheduled to finally get under way at 5pm in an eight overs a side game.

It followed several inspections by umpires Rob Bailey and Martin Saggers after morning and early afternoon downpours.

But a torrential downpour at 4.20pm ended hopes of any play.

Both sides collected one point apiece with Worcestershire remaining in third spot.

The Rapids are level on points with second placed Notts Outlaws but have a game in hand.

It is Worcestershire’s second home Blast wash-out of the campaign after the derby match with Birmingham Bears suffered the same fate.