The Vitality Blast season officially got underway at Lord’s with a historic first double-header featuring both the women’s and men’s teams from Middlesex and Sussex Sharks. 

In the women’s fixture, Middlesex delivered a confident all-round performance to secure victory by eight wickets. 

14-year-old Anaya Patel starred with the ball, claiming 4 for 18 in a disciplined spell that restricted Sussex to 102 for 7 from their 20 overs. In response, Middlesex chased the target with ease, led by a stylish unbeaten 50 from opener Riva Pindoria, guiding the hosts to a comfortable win. 

Up next was the men’s clash, with the visitors and last year’s Blast semi-finalists Sussex setting an imposing total of 202 for 4, thanks largely to a career-best 77 not out from 44 balls by James Coles. 

In response, Middlesex, led by captain Stephen Eskinazi and superstar signing Kane Williamson, gave the Lord’s crowd a glimpse of their firepower with several big hits early in the innings. 

But despite strong contributions from Ben Geddes (51) and Ryan Higgins (44), the hosts ultimately fell short, finishing on 186 for 7 in their 20 overs. 

Led by Ollie Robinson and his three wickets, Sussex’s composed bowling display ensured a 16-run victory, rounding off a successful evening for the visitors. 

Middlesex will look to bounce back in their next Vitality Blast fixture at Lord’s, when they take on Kent Spitfires on Thursday 5 June. 

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