The 2026 T20 Blast kicks off Friday with all 18 counties in action. Surrey chase their first title since 2003, relying on captain Sam Curran’s all‑round brilliance after an IPL injury kept him out. Curran’s recent World Cup heroics, including a decisive last‑over spell against Italy, raise expectations for a deep run. Their squad also features veteran Jamie Smith and rising star Ollie Pope.

Sussex bank on James Coles, the Hundred’s most expensive auction pick, to bolster both bat and ball. The 20‑year‑old has piled up 161 runs and five wickets in SA20, earning praise from coach Paul Farbrace as an all‑rounder. Meanwhile, 19‑year‑old Davina Perrin, omitted from England’s World Cup squad despite a 101‑off‑43 Hundred century, will aim to force a return this Blast season.

Tammy Beaumont heads a Blaze side stripped of six internationals, including captain Nat Sciver‑Brunt, giving her a rare chance to add another trophy. The 35‑year‑old posted an 81 off 50 balls last season and two recent half‑centuries in the One‑Day Cup, most recently 99‑not‑out versus Somerset. Her performance will determine whether she secures a final England recall.