Thousands of fans packed into Wantage Road last night – and pronounced themselves delighted with Northamptonshire’s 36-run win over Durham.
The victory means the Steelbacks head to the T20 finals day at Edgbaston next weekend.
More than 5,200 watched a man-of-the-match display from Australian batsman Cameron White, who smashed 58 from just 32 balls.
Fan John Rigby said White’s innings was suberb, adding: “He led from the front and put us in a really strong position.”
With Northants in control for much of the match, a lively atmosphere ensued at the County Ground.
Mr Rigby added: “It’s really nice to see the crowd up here.”
Fellow Steelbacks supporters agreed, with one, Oliver Guilford, saying: “This is the first game I have been to this season.
“It was a good atmosphere and turnout – it’s what you want to see.”
His friend Simon Cooke added: “We haven’t been the best at this type of cricket recently, but we excelled [last night].”
Meanwhile, another fan said the win would be a boost to cricketers across the county.
“It was a fantastic atmosphere,” said Graham Speechley.
“I was really impressed with how it was all organised. It was great to see the ground full.”