Jos Buttler's impressive half-century propelled Lancashire to a crucial Roses victory over Yorkshire, securing their place in the Vitality Blast quarter-finals. The England batter's explosive innings of 77 runs from 46 balls helped Lancashire reach a total of 174 all out at Headingley. This performance also marked a personal milestone for Buttler, as he surpassed 13,000 career T20 runs.
Lancashire's victory was built on a strong all-round performance, with veteran bowler Sir James Anderson and Chris Green also playing key roles. Anderson took three wickets for 25 runs in his four overs, while Green matched his contribution with three wickets for 27. Their combined efforts ensured that Yorkshire were bowled out for 153, handing Lancashire a 21-run victory.
Buttler's innings was the cornerstone of Lancashire's batting effort. He struck eight fours and three sixes, providing the innings with much-needed momentum and becoming only the second Englishman after Alex Hales to reach 13,000 T20 runs. His aggressive approach put Yorkshire's bowlers under pressure and allowed Lancashire to post a competitive total.
James Anderson's contribution with the ball was equally vital. Fresh from being selected for The Hundred, the 43-year-old showcased his enduring quality by dismissing key Yorkshire batsmen, including Jonny Bairstow, Will Luxton and Dawid Malan. His experience and skill proved crucial in defending Lancashire's total. Chris Green also played a vital role, taking 3-27.
Yorkshire's chase never really gained momentum, despite a fighting half-century from Abdullah Shafique. Shafique scored 54 off 34 balls, but wickets fell at regular intervals, preventing Yorkshire from building any substantial partnerships. The dismissal of Shafique triggered a collapse, with the team losing their last four wickets for just 21 runs. Tom Aspinwall's two wickets in successive deliveries further sealed the victory for Lancashire.
The victory was particularly significant for Lancashire as it ended their three-match losing streak against Yorkshire in Roses encounters. It also ensured their qualification for the Vitality Blast quarter-finals, with the added advantage of securing a home tie.
Other notable performances in the Vitality Blast on the same day included Jordon Cox's stunning 139 not out for Essex against Hampshire. Cox's innings, which included 11 fours and 11 sixes, helped Essex chase down a target of 220. Elsewhere, Worcestershire defeated Nottinghamshire by 45 runs, with Ethan Brookes contributing 57 runs and taking three wickets. Sussex also secured a narrow four-wicket win over Gloucestershire, thanks to Danny Lamb's late heroics.
Looking back to a previous match between these two sides on July 11, 2025, Yorkshire emerged victorious by 19 runs. Jonny Bairstow's sensational 116 off 54 balls led Yorkshire to a total of 236-6. Will Luxton also contributed with 90 not out off 46 balls. Despite Jos Buttler's 55 off 33 balls, Lancashire fell short in their chase, finishing on 217-7.