Durham 2026 T20 Blast Cricket Draft Preview

Overview

Durham had an impressive campaign last time out, finishing the North Group in second place, only two points behind leaders Lancashire. They won eight, lost five, and had one "no result" in 2025. While they narrowly missed out on Finals Day after a defeat to Hampshire at the quarter-final stage, they’ll be hoping for another strong group-stage performance this time around and Durham boast plenty of options heading into the season.

Ben McKinney played only three times in 2025 but will be looking to break into an opening spot in what was a largely settled and flexible top order. The side utilized Ben Raine in various roles throughout the group stages, while Raine, Rhodes, Clark, Lees, Robinson, and Ackermann played all 14 matches.

A fit David Bedingham adds a welcome selection headache for coach Ryan Campbell. Nathan Sowter and Callum Parkinson also featured in every game last year, with Matthew Potts and Kasey Aldridge serving as the most prominent seamers. With last year's success and excellent strength in depth, Durham will be looking to go deep in the tournament once again.

Durham T20 Blast Fantasy Cricket Values

Durham T20 Blast Fantasy Cricket Values

Banker | Wildcard | Young Gun | England Watch

Banker: Nathan Sowter (BWL)

Sowter has been a key figure for Durham in T20 cricket since signing from Middlesex. He and Callum Parkinson form a formidable spin attack; Sowter took 15 wickets last season, and his performances have earned him spots in The Hundred and other franchise competitions. Having also taken 19 wickets in 2024, he is a consistent performer you can rely on, having played every game over the last two seasons.

Wildcard: Sam Conners (BWL)

Conners has yet to truly kick on in a Durham jersey since joining from Derbyshire, but the Vitality Blast could be where he finally makes his mark. Valued at only £5.5m, if he can nail down a spot in the starting XI, he could provide excellent value and act as a real differential option for your squad.

Young Gun: Ben McKinney (BAT)

Though he only played three times last season, his rapid rise will leave Durham selectors with difficult decisions to make. While the top order was settled last year, the 21-year-old left-hander has progressed significantly. He could form an explosive partnership with Graham Clark or continue his established red-ball opening partnership with Alex Lees.

England Watch: Matthew Potts (BWL)

Potts grabbed 16 wickets in just 9 appearances last year, boasting a clinical average of 16 and a five-wicket haul. If he is available and not away with the England setup, he will undoubtedly lead the attack for Ryan Campbell’s side.

Potential Strongest T20 Blast Starting XI

No	Player	Role
1	Alex Lees	BAT
2	Ben McKinney	BAT
3	David Bedingham (OS)	BAT
4	Graham Clark	BAT
5	Colin Ackermann/Ben Stokes	BAT/ALR
6	Ollie Robinson	WKT
7	Ben Raine	ALR
8	Brydon Carse	ALR
9	Matthew Potts	BWL
10	Nathan Sowter	BWL
11	Callum Parkinson/Mark Wood	BWL