Sharks qualify for Twenty20 Cup Quarter Finals

Results go Sussex's way last night

Sussex Sharks have qualified through to the quarter finals of the Twenty20 Cup after results went Sussex’s way last night.  This also means that Sussex will be in the first division of the new P20 English Premier League tournament in 2010.

Holders Middlesex won their first game of the competition, as Neil Dexter’s aggressive half century led them to a 23-run victory over Essex at Lord’s. Middlesex still sit bottom having played eight games and total only two points. Essex missed the opportunity to leapfrog Sussex and the Sharks sit in second place, with one game remaining.

Kent did overtake Sussex as they beat Hampshire by seven wickets at Southampton. Darren Stevens scored a half century and put on an unbroken partnership of 102 with Geraint Jones to secure victory with 13 balls to spare.

So Sussex sit second, one point behind leaders Kent on 13 points. The top four in the South division have all played nine games and three points separate them. However, Sussex are guaranteed qualification to the quarter finals.

The Sharks go to struggling Middlesex on tomorrow (Sunday) and will be looking for a win to secure a home quarter-final at fortress Hove, where they have won four of their five home games this year.

The draw for the Quarter Finals takes place on Sunday evening, with matches played over Monday 27th July, Tuesday 28th and Wednesday 29th July.  There is likely to be some juggling on Monday before dates are confirmed given the counties other fixtures around that time.

It is expected that tickets should go on sale around Wednesday but please keep an eye on the website for further updates, or call the ticket hotline (0844 2640202).