Northamptonshire stay perfect with win over Durham

MEN'S T20 BLAST ROUNDUP: Steelbacks defended what appeared to be a below-par 145 for 9 thanks to two wickets apiece for Ben Sanderson and James Sales

ECB Reporters Network | 06/06/2026 at 21:55

Chester-le-Street: Northamptonshire Steelbacks 145-9, Durham 138-8 - Northamptonshire Steelbacks won by seven runs

Northamptonshire continued their fabulous start to this season's T20 Blast with a thrilling bowler-dominated seven-run win over Durham at Chester-le-Street, defending a 146-run target.

Steelbacks claimed this low-scoring cross-group clash to secure a fifth straight win and strengthen their position atop the Central and West Group.

They were particularly impressive in defence as North Group side Durham - 138 for 8 - lost their third game in five. The seam of James Sales comfortably defended 14 off the last over and finished with 2 for 10 from two. Ben McKinney top-scored with 33 for Durham.

Northamptonshire's 145 for 9 saw Justin Broad top-score with 36 off 32 balls. Left-arm spinner Callum Parkinson was excellent with 3 for 19. Pacy Kasey Aldridge also struck twice and claimed three catches.