MANCHESTER — Jonny Bairstow delivered a blistering century as Yorkshire Vikings triumphed over Lancashire Lightning by 41 runs in a high-octane Roses clash at Emirates Old Trafford, headlining an extraordinary Friday in the T20 Blast that saw the top four sides in the North Group level on points.
Bairstow’s explosive 116 off 59 balls, featuring eight sixes and seven fours, powered Yorkshire to a formidable 211/3. His innings, which included a 125-run partnership with Dawid Malan (45*), left Lancashire’s bowlers helpless under the floodlights. "It’s always special to perform in a Roses match," Bairstow said post-match. "The atmosphere was electric, and I just wanted to put on a show for the fans."
Bairstow’s Masterclass Dominates Roses Clash
Bairstow’s century, his second in T20 cricket, was a masterclass in controlled aggression. He targeted Lancashire’s spinners, particularly Tom Hartley, whom he smashed for 24 runs in a single over. The England wicketkeeper-batter reached his hundred in just 52 balls, celebrating with a roar to a raucous Yorkshire contingent.
Lancashire’s chase faltered early, losing Phil Salt (9) and Keaton Jennings (12) inside the powerplay. Despite a valiant 68 from captain Liam Livingstone, the hosts were bowled out for 170 in 18.3 overs. Jordan Thompson starred with the ball, taking 4/28, including the crucial wicket of Livingstone.
North Group Tightens as Top Four Draw Level
Friday’s results saw a dramatic shift in the North Group standings, with Yorkshire, Lancashire, Birmingham Bears, and Derbyshire Falcons all tied on 12 points. Key highlights from other matches:
- Birmingham Bears edged Notts Outlaws by 5 runs, with Sam Hain’s 75* proving decisive.
- Derbyshire Falcons chased down 190 against Durham, thanks to a fiery 89* from Wayne Madsen.
- Worcestershire Rapids stunned Leicestershire Foxes as Brett D’Oliveira took 4/15.
The logjam sets up a thrilling second half of the group stage, with net run rate now a critical factor. "Every game feels like a final now," said Birmingham Bears captain Alex Davies.
Livingstone’s Lone Fight in Vain
Lancashire’s Liam Livingstone fought a lone battle with his 35-ball 68, including five sixes, but lacked support. Yorkshire’s disciplined bowling, led by Thompson and Adil Rashid (2/25), ensured the chase never gained momentum. "We lost too many early wickets," admitted Livingstone. "Jonny’s innings was the difference."
South Group: Somerset Extend Lead
In the South Group, Somerset strengthened their position at the top with a 7-wicket win over Gloucestershire. Will Smeed’s 61 off 33 balls guided the chase of 168, while Essex Eagles kept pace by defeating Kent Spitfires.
Surrey’s Jason Roy returned to form with a 47-ball 80 against Hampshire, but his effort was overshadowed by James Vince’s unbeaten 88, which sealed a 6-wicket win for the Hawks.
Conclusion: Bairstow’s Statement Ahead of T20 World Cup
Bairstow’s knock not only secured Yorkshire’s bragging rights but also served as a timely reminder of his destructive capabilities ahead of England’s T20 World Cup campaign. With the North Group wide open, the next fortnight promises fireworks. "This is what the Blast is all about," said Bairstow. "Big games, big crowds, and big performances."
The T20 Blast resumes on Sunday, with Yorkshire hosting Birmingham Bears in a top-of-the-table clash, while Lancashire travel to Derbyshire in another critical fixture.