The Road to EdgBLASTon: Quarter Final Preview

The 2025 Vitality Blast will enter the knockout stages in just one week as Edgbaston prepares to host the biggest day in domestic cricket.

With a place at Finals Day on Saturday 13 September on the line, the stakes could not be higher. Let’s take a look at how the 2025 Quarter Finals match up with the key places and stories that will define the decisive phase of the tournament.

Surrey vs Northants Steelbacks – Wednesday 3 September

Surrey remain one of English cricket’s powerhouse counties, yet their T20 Blast record has not reflected their stature, with their sole title won in the inaugural competition in 2003. The challenge for them will be balancing their squad amid England commitments while seeking to overcome a record of near misses in the format.

Meanwhile, after a strong start to the 2025 campaign with a six-game unbeaten streak, Northants Steelbacks experienced a slight dip in form late in the group stage but remain a dangerous side. With seasoned campaigners such as David Willey, Ravi Bopara and Ben Sanderson, they will be eager to reach their first Finals Day since 2016.

One to Watch (Surrey): Sam Curran

An integral figure for Surrey, and new captain, Curran’s all-round abilities with bat and ball and love of the big stage make him one of the most influential players in the tournament. With 296 runs and 21 wickets in the tournament so far, and currently showing his class in The Hundred, he will be looking to take good momentum for his team into the knockout stages.

One to Watch (Northants Steelbacks): David Willey

A proven performer in high-pressure matches, Willey’s experience and versatility will provide Northants with important stability in both their batting and bowling line up. As Northants’ leading run scorer in the tournament, he will be looking to continue to lead from the front.

Durham vs Hampshire Hawks – Friday 5 September

Durham’s consistent performances in a competitive North Group have earned them a home Quarter Final and the momentum that comes with it. They remain one of only four counties yet to secure a T20 Blast title, and this season may represent their most promising opportunity in years.

In contrast, Hampshire boast a rich history in the competition with three titles to their name and a captain that is the Blast’s all-time leading run scorer. This encounter is set up as a contest of Durham’s ambition against Hampshire’s experience.

One to Watch (Durham): Alex Lees

Durham’s captain has led by example throughout the competition, providing stability at the top of the order and demonstrating strong leadership. He may not be best known for his short-form power hitting, but he has definitely led from the front, finishing the group stages as Durham’s leading run scorer and a century to his name.

One to Watch (Hampshire Hawks): Toby Albert

A promising young talent, Albert’s dynamic batting has added excellent depth to Hampshire’s side, known for its balance and pedigree. Scoring 472 runs at an average of nearly 50, he currently sits fifth in the 2025 leading run scorers.

Lancashire Lightning vs Kent Spitfires – Saturday 6 September

Lancashire Lightning’s strong finish to the group stage has secure them a home Quarter Final, but potential absences of several England internationals could test their squad depth. However, Lancashire are in a familiar position with nine previous appearances at Finals Day, more than any other North Group side.

Kent have shown both brilliance and inconsistency in recent years, fluctuating from champions in 2021 to a struggling side in 2024. With a dynamic opening partnership in Tawana Muyeye and Daniel Bell-Drummond, Kent are aiming to rediscover their championship-winning form against a Blast stalwart.

One to Watch (Lancashire Lightning): Keaton Jennings

Jennings’ composure and reliability has been instrumental to Lancashire’s success, providing a great base for big runs to be scored and their late surge towards the knockout stages.  

One to Watch (Kent Spitfires): Tawanda Muyeye

One of the standout young players of 2025, Muyeye’s attacking style has been a key factor in Kent’s success. With three 50s and one 100 in the 2025 campaign, he has made his mark, currently sitting as the tournaments second highest run scorer.

Somerset vs Bears – Saturday 6 September

Somerset will go into the knockout stages full of confidence and continue to show their prowess as one of the most consistent teams in the Blast, aiming to reach their fifth consecutive Finals Day and regain the title they secured in 2023.

Conversely, Bears are looking to overturn a disappointing run of four consecutive Quarter Final exits and will hope to be able to capitalise on the familiarity of and home crowd at Edgbaston on Finals Day. With both teams missing young international stars in Tom Banton and Jacob Bethell, this knockout clash could cause an upset to the ever-consistent Somerset.

One to Watch (Somerset): Will Smeed

A powerful striker of the ball, Smeed’s ability to score quickly at the top of the order makes him a constant threat. Averaging over 40 in the tournament so far, he continues to shine as one the next big talents in T20 cricket.

One to Watch (Bears): Sam Hain

Renowned for this consistency and ability to anchor an innings, Hain’s presence at the crease will be crucial for the Bears Finals Day aspirations. Finishing the group stages as the Bears leading run scorer for the third year in a row, he will be looking to complete another successful run chase for his side.

The Vitality Blast Quarter Finals promise to be box office viewing with established powers seeking to reinforce their dominance in T20 cricket and ambitious challengers striving to make history.

Edgbaston is once again set to provide the perfect stage for the return of the biggest party in cricket – Vitality Blast Finals Day – and to watch the 2025 champions crowned.

Limited tickets are now left, with over 95% of general admission tickets sold. Tickets can be purchased online now. Alternatively, VIP Experiences are still available via Keith Prowse.