Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Chris Lynn century powered Northamptonshire Steelbacks into the Vitality Blast knockout stage after a 53-run win over Glamorgan at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff on Wednesday.
The Australian opener struck a career-best 117 from 56 balls, hitting seven sixes and 10 fours as Northamptonshire Steelbacks posted 7-217 before bowling Glamorgan out for 164.
The result came during a strong week for cricket coverage, including women’s cricket growth after the T20 World Cup, as domestic and international formats continue to draw attention.
Lynn Leads Northamptonshire Charge
Chris Lynn, who also made an unbeaten 115 against Warwickshire at Edgbaston last month, again showed why he remains one of the most dangerous T20 batters in the game.
His timing through the off side and power over the leg side kept Glamorgan under pressure from the early overs. The 36-year-old Queenslander was eventually caught by Asa Tribe off Jimmy Neesham in the 17th over.
The innings was the highest individual score by a Northamptonshire Steelbacks batter. It also helped the side secure a home quarter-final with two group matches still to play.
Northamptonshire Steelbacks now sit 12 points clear at the top of the Central and West Group after nine wins from 10 matches. Official competition details are available through the Vitality Blast site.
Roy Shines As Surrey Win
Elsewhere, Jason Roy hit an unbeaten 103 from 58 balls as Surrey beat Sussex by eight wickets at The Oval.
Chris Jordan and Tom Lawes took two wickets each before Jason Roy, who struck eight sixes and six fours, guided Surrey home with 16 balls remaining.
Hampshire’s South Group lead was trimmed after a five-wicket loss to Middlesex, while Durham beat Leicestershire by eight wickets.
Alex Lees made 80 from 44 balls for Durham, and Brydon Carse returned from a hand injury with 1-17 from four overs. Somerset kept slim qualification hopes alive as Will Smeed made 89 from 51 balls in a 27-run win over Derbyshire.
