Vitality Blast

The Vitality Blast is the heartbeat of England’s domestic T20 cricket. Launched in 2003 as the first professional T20 league in the world, it has grown into a major fixture in the English cricketing calendar. With explosive matches, iconic rivalries, and top-class international and domestic players, the tournament consistently delivers high-octane cricket entertainment.

History

The Vitality Blast isn’t just another T20 tournament—it’s where England’s love for fast-paced cricket took flight. Launched in 2003 by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), it was the first-ever professional Twenty20 league in the world. Designed to bring new excitement to the game and attract younger fans, the tournament has evolved significantly over the years. Through rebrands, format tweaks, and unforgettable matches, its essence has remained the same—explosive, thrilling cricket.

Twenty20 Cup (2003–2009)

The journey began as the Twenty20 Cup, featuring all 18 first-class counties. Right from the start, it captivated fans with its action-packed format. Surrey clinched the inaugural title in 2003, setting the tone for future seasons. Back then, teams were split into two divisions—North and South—and the competition laid the groundwork for England’s white-ball revolution. Stars like Kevin Pietersen, Andrew Flintoff, and others made their early T20 marks here.

Friends Provident / Friends Life T20 (2010–2013)

In the next phase, sponsorship brought a new name—first the Friends Provident T20, then the Friends Life T20. These years were marked by greater media coverage, higher-profile signings, and a shift toward a franchise-style experience. Teams like Somerset and Hampshire grew stronger, and county cricket adapted to the modern, commercial era of T20 cricket. It was also during this time that the tournament’s popularity expanded globally.

NatWest T20 Blast (2014–2017)

A new identity arrived in 2014: the NatWest T20 Blast. With better television deals and more international talent, the tournament gained even more prominence. The format now included North and South groups, leading into the knockout stages and the beloved Finals Day at Edgbaston—a festival-like finale featuring both semifinals and the final in one jam-packed day. Counties like Nottinghamshire and Birmingham Bears enjoyed strong seasons in this era.

Vitality Blast (2018–Present)

In 2018, the competition got its current name—the Vitality Blast, thanks to a title sponsorship deal. It remains a hotbed of T20 talent, regularly producing future England stars while showcasing seasoned pros and overseas icons. The format is familiar, the crowds are passionate, and Finals Day remains a highlight of the cricket calendar. From rising youngsters like Will Jacks to veterans like James Vince, the Vitality Blast is where English cricket’s future takes shape.

Competition Format

Two-Division Structure (2003–2009)

Initially, the tournament was divided into two regional groups—North and South. Teams played within their zones, building local rivalries and strong fanbases. The top teams advanced to the quarterfinals, then to the semifinals and final, often held at neutral grounds.

North Group

Counties like Lancashire Lightning, Nottinghamshire Outlaws, Yorkshire Vikings, and Durham Jets were part of this zone and often produced intense, closely fought matches.

South Group

Powerhouses like Surrey, Hampshire Hawks, Kent Spitfires, and Sussex Sharks represented the South and were known for flair and consistency.

Three-Division Format (2005–2009)

To expand the tournament’s reach, a three-division model was introduced for a few seasons. It offered more matches and localized rivalries.

Northern Division

Included northern counties like Lancashire, Yorkshire, and Durham.

Central Division

Home to teams such as Warwickshire (Birmingham Bears), Worcestershire, and Northamptonshire.

Southern Division

Counties such as Surrey, Kent, Middlesex, and Sussex competed here.

Winners List

Here’s a snapshot of some notable Vitality Blast champions through the years:

Year Winner Runner-Up Venue
2003 Surrey Warwickshire Trent Bridge
2010 Hampshire Somerset Rose Bowl
2017 Notts Outlaws Birmingham Bears Edgbaston
2021 Kent Spitfires Somerset Edgbaston
2023 Somerset Essex Eagles Edgbaston

📍 Note: The Finals Day is traditionally held at Edgbaston Stadium, Birmingham.

County Performance Overview

A look at how different counties have fared over the years in terms of titles and finals appearances:

County Titles Won Final Appearances Last Title
Leicestershire 3 3 2011
Hampshire Hawks 2 4 2022
Somerset 2 5 2023
Nottinghamshire 2 3 2020
Kent Spitfires 2 3 2021
Surrey 1 4 2003
Essex Eagles 1 2 2019