James Coles stars in Sussex win over Middlesex

James Coles delivered a standout performance to lead Sussex Sharks to a 16-run victory over Middlesex in their opening match of the 2025 Vitality Blast at Lord's on May 29. The 21-year-old all-rounder scored an unbeaten 77 runs off 44 balls, marking his highest T20 score to date. His innings, featuring five sixes and five fours, was pivotal in Sussex's total of 202 for 4. Coles' crucial partnership with Tom Clark, an unbroken 88-run stand for the fifth wicket, provided the momentum Sussex needed after early setbacks. In the second innings, Middlesex's Ben Geddes scored a maiden T20 half-century with 51 runs, and Ryan Higgins added a rapid 44 off 16 balls. However, Sussex's bowlers, led by Ollie Robinson who took 3 wickets for 27 runs, managed to restrict Middlesex to 186 for 7, securing the win. Reflecting on his performance, Coles acknowledged the challenging pitch conditions, noting that patience was key to building his innings. He emphasized the importance of adapting to the game's flow and seizing moments to shift momentum. This victory sets a positive tone for Sussex, last year's semi-finalists, as they commence their campaign in the T20 Blast.