In a thrilling T20 Blast encounter at Edgbaston, Ed Barnard delivered a match-winning performance, scoring a blistering 54 runs off just 34 balls, his fourth half-century of the tournament. This innings was pivotal as the Bears posted a formidable total of 203-9 after being sent in to bat. Dan Mousley also contributed significantly with a rapid 32 off 12 balls, setting the stage for a dominant display.

In response, Lancashire, the North Group leaders, struggled to gain momentum. Despite a quickfire 21 off 9 balls from Phil Salt, the team's chase faltered, particularly with Jos Buttler dismissed for a duck. Lancashire was eventually bowled out for 167, handing the Bears a 36-run victory. This result saw Lancashire slip from the top of the table, with Durham taking over on net-run rate, while the Bears climbed to third place.

Key Performances:

• Ed Barnard: 54 (34 balls)
• Dan Mousley: 32 (12 balls)
• Tom Hartley: 35 (16 balls) - a late flourish for Lancashire
• George Garton: 4-28 - crucial bowling for the Bears

In the South Group, Surrey continued their strong form with a 28-run victory over Gloucestershire. Will Jacks and Sam Curran provided a solid start, with Jacks scoring 57 off 35 balls and Curran adding 46 off 33. Despite a mid-innings slump, Tom Curran's 32 off 15 balls helped Surrey set a challenging 193-7, which they defended comfortably.

Meanwhile, Hampshire pulled off a thrilling chase against Middlesex, reaching the target of 188 with just two balls to spare. James Fuller was the hero, scoring an unbeaten 43, including two crucial sixes in the final overs.

Other Notable Matches:

• Kent staged a remarkable recovery to beat Sussex by three wickets, thanks to Joey Evison's unbeaten 48 off 24 balls.
• Surrey now lead the South Group by four points, while Gloucestershire's four-match winning streak came to an end.

Upcoming Fixtures:

• North Group: Leicestershire Foxes v Northamptonshire Steelbacks (18:30 BST)
• South Group: Hampshire Hawks v Glamorgan (19:00 BST)

With the T20 Blast heating up, the race for qualification spots remains wide open, promising more exciting cricket in the coming weeks.