Domestic Cricket

Just three days after lifting the T20 Blast trophy, Northamptonshire showed no signs of a hangover as they chased down 313 to beat Warwickshire in their One-Day Cup opener.

Rishi Patel will leave Leicestershire when the season concludes, bringing an end to a six-year stint that saw the county win two major honours. The 27-year-old says the time is right for a fresh challenge.

Georgia Elwiss overcame injury concerns to craft a magnificent 96, steering The Blaze to a crucial five-wicket victory over Surrey that strengthens their grip on pole position.

The T20 Blast returns this weekend with glorious weather forecast, offering the perfect backdrop for festival cricket after a miserable April.

The move from friendly fixtures to competitive cricket strips away all false confidence and reminds players what the game is really about.

As competitive fixtures return, even seasoned professionals face the harsh reality when the comfort zone of pre-season preparation disappears.

The shift from pre-season friendlies to competitive fixtures brings a stark reality check that even the most experienced cricketers find humbling.

The Blaze seamer Grace Ballinger reflects on how the shift from pre-season friendlies to competitive cricket provides a humbling reality check for players at every level.

The transition from pre-season cricket to competitive matches remains one of sport's great levellers, humbling veterans and newcomers alike.

The 18-year-old wicketkeeper-batter is balancing A-Level studies with first-team ambitions after a breakthrough winter with England.