2021 Vitality t20 Blast Semi-Final – Hampshire Hawks vs Somerset Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When is Hampshire Hawks vs Somerset taking place? Saturday 18th September, 2021 – 11:00 (UK)
Where is Hampshire Hawks vs Somerset taking place? Edgbaston, Birmingham
What is the expected weather for Hampshire Hawks vs Somerset? 17-18c with a chance of light rain showers and light winds
Where can I get tickets for Hampshire Hawks vs Somerset? Click here for the latest ticket information
What channel is Hampshire Hawks vs Somerset on? Sky Sports have the rights to show the T20 Blast so check their schedule here to see if they will be showing this match
Where can I stream Hampshire Hawks vs Somerset? If televised on Sky Sports, this match can be streamed live on Sky Go. If not televised on Sky, this match can be streamed live on the official websites and YouTube channels of each competing team, as well as the England Cricket app
THE LOWDOWN
Hampshire Hawks pulled off the biggest shock of the quarter-final stage by knocking out reigning champions Notts Outlaws in an absolute thriller at Trent Bridge. After appearing to be under-par with their score of 125/9 batting first, Hampshire bowled out the Outlaws for 123 to win by just two runs. Somerset meanwhile, were comfortable winners over a strong Lancashire Lightning side, chasing down a target of 185 in 18.1 overs with seven wickets remaining. Tom Abell shone for the Cidermen with a magnificent 78 not out as he put on an unbeaten partnership of 102 with Tom Lammonby (47 not out) to see his side home.
THE PREDICTION
Hampshire Hawks snuck through the back door of the South Group to make it through to the knockout stage, finishing in fourth-place and how often do we see a team like that ride a huge wave of momentum all the way to the T20 Blast trophy as Essex Eagles did in 2019. Somerset on paper appear to boast a stronger batting line-up than Hampshire with the likes of Will Smeed, Tom Banton and Abell within their ranks, however the Hawks boast an outstanding captain and batter in James Vince, who successfully led Southern Brave to the Men’s Hundred title. Fast bowler Brad Wheal may play a huge part in this one for Vince’s side, in combination with the spinners and when taking into account the momentum being firmly in their favour, backing Hampshire Hawks for victory here looks to be the smart play.
