The County Ground in Northampton has consistently produced competitive T20 contests over the past few seasons. With Northamptonshire Steelbacks boasting an explosive batting lineup and a varied bowling attack, this venue often sees tightly fought encounters in the Vitality Blast.
A venue that tends to be batting friendly, but bowlers are rewarded for bowling well!
Bowling Performance – Spin vs Pace
| Bowling Type | Bowling Average | Economy Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Spin Bowlers | 28.86 | 8.58 |
| Fast Bowlers | 25.59 | 8.96 |
Fast bowlers have fared better in terms of average, even though they go at a slightly higher economy. Spin hasn’t been ineffective, but bowlers need to be smart with variations and lengths here.
Northampton offers a decent balance, but there is a slight edge for pace bowlers, continuing the conventional trend in England.
First Innings Score Trends
| Year | Avg 1st Innings Score |
|---|---|
| 2022 | 183.88 |
| 2023 | 176.57 |
| 2024 | 182.43 |
The venue has consistently produced scores in the high 170s to 180s range. It isn’t a guaranteed batting paradise, but quality top-order batters can take advantage of good conditions early on.
Batting first here often gives a slight edge, especially if scores cross 180.
Wickets Breakdown
Innings-wise Wickets:
| Innings | Avg Wickets Fallen |
|---|---|
| First Innings | 6.00 |
| Second Innings | 6.59 |
Overs Phase:
| Phase | Avg Wickets Per Innings |
|---|---|
| Powerplay Overs | 1.68 |
| Middle Overs | 2.59 |
| Death Overs | 2.26 |
The second innings sees more wickets fall on average, suggesting scoreboard pressure and pitch wear can come into play. The middle and death overs are crucial for bowling sides, while the powerplay offers a relatively safe scoring window.
Expect teams to use their enforcers during overs 7–20 to turn the tide.
Top Run Scorers at County Ground (2022–2025)
| Player | Runs Scored |
|---|---|
| Chris Lynn | 591 |
| Saif Zaib | 492 |
| Ricardo Vasconcelos | 454 |
| David Willey | 339 |
| Josh Cobb | 257 |
Chris Lynn leads the charge as the most dominant batter at the ground in recent years, using his power to clear the small boundaries. Saif Zaib and Vasconcelos have also provided consistent contributions, especially in the middle overs.
This trio is key to setting up or chasing big totals for the Steelbacks.
Top Wicket Takers at County Ground (2022–2025)
| Player | Wickets Taken |
|---|---|
| Ben Sanderson | 27 |
| Freddie Heldreich | 24 |
| David Willey | 19 |
| Tom Taylor | 18 |
| Andrew Tye | 11 |
Ben Sanderson’s ability to strike up front and in the death overs makes him a go-to bowler at this venue. Freddie Heldreich’s success as a spinner shows there’s room for spin if used tactically, especially in the middle overs.
David Willey’s all-round contributions, both with the bat and the ball, further underline his value in home conditions.
Tactical & Betting Tips
- Back power-hitters like Chris Lynn and Ricardo Vasconcelos, especially when Northamptonshire bats first
- Look to invest in death-over bowlers like Sanderson and Willey in fantasy or prop markets
- While spinners like Heldreich have done well, use them selectively—conditions don’t always favor slow bowling here.
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