T20 Blast essentials: All you need to know ahead of Thursday's double-header

The Cricketer previews two more matches from the North Group as the battle for the quarter-finals hots up...

• Yorkshire confirm positive COVID-19 test
• Empty Lord's still possesses unique charm behind closed doors

NORTH GROUP

Nottinghamshire v Derbyshire

Where: Trent Bridge, Nottinghamshire

When: Thursday, September 17

Lowdown: Notts will qualify if they avoid defeat against Derbyshire and can remain on course to progress in top spot with a win. Derbyshire are bottom of the group and a return to Finals Day is all-but over.

One to Watch: Joe Clarke has had an impressive run of form during the tournament. In five games he’s struck 259 runs in the competition, hitting a half-century last time out against the Falcons.

Tickets: The match will be played behind closed doors. 

Weather: Sunny throughout the day with very minimum cloud cover.

Prediction: Notts. 

Lancashire v Yorkshire

Where: Old Trafford, Manchester 

When: Thursday, September 17

Lowdown: Yorkshire haven’t won any of their five against Lancashire. Time is running out for the Vikings to mount a challenge for the top two, while Lancs occupy second place in the group behind Notts.

One to Watch: Twenty-nine-year-old Tom Bailey has taken 10 wickets in just six outings this term. With an economy rate of 6.39 he’ll certainly be one to watch throughout.

Tickets: The match will be played behind closed doors. 

Weather: Sunny throughout the day, reaching temperatures of around 20 degrees. 

Prediction: Lancashire

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