Hampshire Hawks captain James Vince has called on his side to hold their strong Vitality Blast form into the second half of the campaign, as they prepare for Friday’s blockbuster Blast Fest fixture at Utilita Bowl.
The Hawks head into the clash in a robust position after a powerful run within the opening weeks of the competition, bouncing back from a gap defeat to win five consecutive matches.
Reflecting on the primary half of the group stage, Vince said the squad may very well be pleased with their work thus far, but stressed the importance of maintaining standards because the race for the knockout stages intensifies.
“It’s been pretty good,” he said. “In case you’d offered us this position at the beginning of the season, we’d have taken it no doubt.
Good position
He continued: “After losing the primary game after which bouncing back with five on the spin, it’s put us in a superb position.
“Going into the second half, we would need barely fewer wins than we did at the beginning to ensure we reach the quarter-finals, but we’re still focused on winning every game.”
That strong start has given Hampshire what Vince describes as a worthwhile “buffer”, however the skipper is under no illusions in regards to the challenges still to are available in a contest where momentum can quickly shift.
“Momentum is the whole lot in T20 cricket,” Vince added. “You may win a couple of on the spin, as we did, but when you get on the improper side of a few results, it could quickly go against you.
“We all know we’ve got to be on it right away and ensure we keep pushing to secure that quarter-final place.”
PICTURES: Hampshire Cricket/Dave Vokes
Contributions
The Hawks’ success thus far has been built on contributions throughout the squad, with Vince highlighting a lot of key performers who’ve helped lay the inspiration for his or her campaign.
“Russell Domingo has are available in as coach and made an actual impact, and Hilton Cartwright has been sensible.
“The way in which he’s are available in and brought games on, he’s played some vital roles for us.
“Scott Currie has been outstanding as well, and there’s been contributions right across the group, it’s been a very pleasing start.”
Attention now turns to Friday’s Blast Fest clash, where Hampshire will look to increase each their winning momentum and their formidable record at Utilita Bowl in front of a packed home crowd.
Hampshire Hawks’ Vitality Blast fixture against Yorkshire on Friday 26 June might be transformed into Blast Fest, combining T20 cricket, live music and summer entertainment for considered one of the most important matchdays of the season.
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