NewsDarren Lehmann Backs Justin Langer as a Strong Candidate for England Test Coach
Darren Lehmann says he has had no call from the ECB, is happy at Northamptonshire, and believes Justin Langer would make a very good England Test coach.
Hampshire face Nottinghamshire at Edgbaston in the second semi-final of the T20 Blast 2026, with the match starting at 2:30 pm local time. The winner moves on to the final.
Hampshire’s probable XI is led by James Vince, with Toby Albert, Joe Weatherley, Ben Mayes and Hilton Cartwright in the batting group. Liam Dawson and James Fuller offer all-round options, while Scott Currie, Andrew Neal, Sonny Baker and Chris Wood make up the bowling.
Nottinghamshire, captained by Joe Clarke, could field George Munsey, Jack Haynes, Freddie McCann and Tom Moores in the top order. Their attack features George Linde, Benny Howell, Liam Patterson-White, Dillon Pennington, Olly Stone and Binura Fernando.
Batting should become easier once the ball loses its shine, making the middle overs key for building partnerships, while slower-ball bowlers could be effective late in the innings. With the edge in balance, our preview picks Hampshire, with Nottinghamshire expected to win the toss.
Edgbaston generally offers a balanced T20 surface. The new ball may move a little for seamers, and the pitch then settles so batters can play freely. Short square boundaries suit power hitters, while spinners can come into the game in the middle overs using changes of pace. Teams batting first usually aim for 170–180, and over 180 is strong in a knockout.
The 2:30 pm start should be partly sunny at around 22–23°C, with light winds and dry conditions. There is a slight chance of a brief passing shower, but a full match is expected, and dew is unlikely to matter in the afternoon.
Our preview picks Hampshire.
We expect Nottinghamshire to win the toss and bowl first.
Around 175-plus should be highly competitive.
NewsDarren Lehmann says he has had no call from the ECB, is happy at Northamptonshire, and believes Justin Langer would make a very good England Test coach.