In a thrilling semi‑final clash that will be remembered for years to come, Middlesex produced a remarkable turnaround to deny Durham and England all‑rounder Ben Stokes a place in the 2026 Metro Bank One‑Day Cup final. The match, played under the bright lights of a packed ground, saw Middlesex overcome a seemingly insurmountable deficit and secure their first appearance in a List‑A final in 36 years. The game began with Durham winning the toss and opting to bat first. Their openers set a steady platform, but the real fireworks started when the middle order began to accelerate.
Will Rhodes was the standout with a crisp 80, while Colin Ackermann, who would later become the most economical bowler for Durham, contributed an unbeaten 71. Together they pushed Durham to a respectable total of 254 for 7 in their allotted 50 overs. Ben Stokes, the former England captain and a key figure in Durham’s campaign, managed only six runs before being dismissed, a modest contribution that would later prove insufficient to change the outcome.
When Middlesex took to the crease, the target of 255 seemed well within reach, but the early overs told a different story. By the end of the 31st over, Middlesex found themselves precariously placed at 145 for 7, with the required run‑rate climbing sharply. Colin Ackermann, who had been a menace with the ball earlier, was now the leading wicket‑taker, having claimed three wickets for 46 runs. The home side appeared destined for a heavy defeat, and the crowd could feel the tension mounting.
The turning point arrived in the form of Luke Hollman, the young all‑rounder who had already made a name for himself with his leg‑spin. Hollman walked in at a critical juncture and, displaying a blend of composure and aggression, began to rebuild the innings. He forged a vital partnership of 79 runs for the eighth wicket with Tom Helm, who added a useful 40 runs. This partnership not only steadied the ship but also shifted the momentum firmly in Middlesex’s favour.
Hollman's unbeaten 83, scored with a mixture of elegant drives and powerful pulls, became the cornerstone of the chase. As the overs progressed, Middlesex needed 31 more runs with just eight balls remaining. Noah Cornwell, who had contributed a single run earlier, stayed at the crease and supported Hollman as he methodically ticked off the remaining runs. The final six balls saw Hollman guide the ball to the boundary three times, ensuring that Middlesex crossed the finish line with two wickets to spare.
The home crowd erupted in jubilation as the team celebrated a memorable two‑wicket victory that secured their place in the final. While Middlesex’s batting heroics stole the headlines, the bowlers also played a crucial role. Hollman, who had already made a significant impact with the bat, delivered an impressive spell of leg‑spin, claiming three wickets for 53 runs. His ability to turn the ball sharply confused the Durham batsmen and helped keep the total within reach.
Zafar Gohar added two wickets for 39 runs, including the prized wicket of Ben Stokes, who was dismissed for a modest six. Naavya Sharma chipped in with figures of 2 for 40, further tightening the pressure on Durham. On the Durham side, Stokes attempted to make a comeback with the ball, delivering nine overs for 40 runs and taking the wicket of Joshua de Caires, the son of former England great Michael Atherton, with his third delivery.
However, beyond that early breakthrough, Stokes was unable to generate further breakthroughs, and Durham’s bowlers could not stem the flow of runs in the final overs. The victory set up a final showdown between Middlesex and Leicestershire, scheduled for Sunday, September 20, to be broadcast live on Sky Sports. Leicestershire earned their place in the final by defending a total of 304, beating the Notts Outlaws by 23 runs in the other semi‑final.
Their semi‑final performance was highlighted by Hamza Shaikh, a former England U19 captain, who smashed a brilliant 104 off 109 balls – his second century of the competition. Shaikh’s innings was supported by Nick Kelly, who contributed a quick‑fire 53, forming a 117‑run partnership for the fourth wicket. Dillon Pennington’s three‑wicket haul (3‑65) added balance to Leicestershire’s bowling attack.
Leicestershire’s chase was anchored by 19‑year‑old pace bowler Alex Green, who delivered a stunning spell of 4 for 40, dismantling the Outlaws for 280. Although Notts Outlaws’ Freddie McCann (64) and Haseeb Hameed (54) provided resistance, they lacked a substantial partnership to mount a serious challenge, and a crucial run‑out of McCann sealed their fate. Middlesex’s journey to the final is a story of resilience, strategic acumen, and individual brilliance. Their ability to recover from a dire position, combined with Hollman’s all‑round display, underscores the unpredictable nature of one‑day cricket.
As the final approaches, both Middlesex and Leicestershire will look to build on their semi‑final successes, with Middlesex hoping to convert their dramatic comeback into a trophy, while Leicestershire aims to capitalize on their powerful batting and disciplined bowling to claim the championship. The upcoming final promises to be a showcase of skill, strategy, and the sheer excitement that defines the Metro Bank One‑Day Cup.