• Saffas Abroad: Exports left empty-handed

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    Last-over drama in England’s T20 Blast final ensured no South Africans lifted the trophy.

    Dane Vilas and South African-born England batsman Keaton Jennings produced standout performances as Lancashire beat Yorkshire by six wickets in the first semi-final on Saturday.

    Jennings led the charge with 75 off 51 balls (nine fours and a six) before captain Vilas scored an unbeaten 63 off 36 balls (six fours and two sixes).

    The two couldn’t replicate their contributions in the final, though, with Jennings scoring 24 and Vilas 23 as they went down by one run against Hampshire.

    The final was not without drama – Hampshire were already off and celebrating as fireworks exploded in the background, but they were short-lived as Nathan Ellis’ final delivery was called a no-ball.

    More drama ensued as Hampshire started their second round of celebrations after the subsequent free hit resulted in a single bye with Lancashire requiring two for the win.

    A dead-ball was called and one run awarded, but it appeared as if Richard Gleeson and Tom Hartley had crossed for a second run that would have levelled the scores and handed Lancashire the title due to their superior powerplay performance.

    Vilas approached the umpires after the match but had to settle for the narrow loss.

    There was no joy for Rilee Rossouw and Roelof van der Merwe as Somerset lost to Hampshire by 37 runs in the second semi-final on Saturday.

    Rossouw scored 23 off 20 balls while van der Merwe bagged two wickets and scored 10*.

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    Juandre Joubert