Vitality Blast Countdown: Final Two Balls

With just two days to go until the start of the 2023 Vitality Blast, take a look back at those dramatic final two balls of the 2022 Vitality Blast as Nathan Ellis held his nerve to secure a third T20 trophy for the Hampshire Hawks.

Nathan Ellis took 15 wickets during the Hawk's successful 2023 Vitality Blast campaign, with an extraordinary economy rate of just 6.99.

However, his final two balls proved to be his most crucial contribution to James Vince's side eventually lifting the trophy.

Hampshire's opponents, Lancashire needed 11 runs from the final over to snatch victory away from the Hawks but up stepped Ellis, who did not concede a boundary, and from the last ball, the Red Rose needed a maximum to win the game.

Ellis bowled a searing, full-pace yorker which bowled Gleeson, and the celebrations began, only for them to be halted moments later as the players turned to see the outstretched arm of the umpire.

The Australian would have to re-bowl the final delivery, with Lancashire just needing three to win.

Ellis would again hold his nerve, a perfect slower ball that Gleeson swung at but missed. The batters crossed for one bye, which gave the Hawks the win by one run in the most dramatic fashion.

To watch Nathan and the rest of the Vitality Blast champions, Hampshire Hawks, in action in 2023 get your Passports and tickets, on sale now via the link below.