Hampshire T20 Blast captain James Vince believes semi-final opponents Notts Outlaws will provide a “tough test” at Edgbaston on Saturday.

The Hawks booked a spot on Finals day for a record 12th time after a 75-run victory over Essex in the Utilita Bowl on Wednesday night.

Vince was his team’s top scorer with 125 off just 61 balls, and Sonny Baker then starred in the ball, taking a career-best 5-24.

Hampshire will look to win the Blast trophy for the fourth time on Saturday and face the Outlaws in the day’s second semi-final after Northants Steelbacks against Somerset.

“We know it will be a tough test against Notts,” Vince told BBC Radio Solent.

“Anyone who is in the competition at this stage is obviously a good team and plays good cricket, and has a really well-balanced team.

“Hopefully, if we put in another performance like tonight, it will be good enough to have another chance in the final.

“Personally it’s great to be back for Finals Day, I’m not getting any younger and it’s always a special day to be a part of, that’s why some of the older lads keep coming back and I’m delighted to be back.”

Hampshire lost the toss and batted first in a quieter than normal Utilita Bowl, a result of a lower attendance after the match was brought forward due to England’s World Cup semi-final later that night.

Openers Vince, who has not played red-ball cricket since 2024, and Toby Albert got off to a good start, forging a partnership of 60 before Albert was dismissed for 22.

Vince then fell on 46 and punished Essex for the error, reaching his hundred off 43 balls.

Hampshire finished their innings on 211-3 and then bowled well to restrict the Eagles to 136-9 in reply.

“It was one of those days where everything seemed to go well and in the end it was a pretty stress-free victory,” Vince added.

“I’m delighted to be on Finals Day and it felt good out there. “Coming into the quarter-finals and knockout cricket, it’s good to make a contribution and hopefully we can keep going until Saturday.

“A couple of lads missed out last year like Hilts (Hilton Cartwright) and it’s such a good day, I’m glad we’re there and have a chance to win the competition.”