Friends Provident t20 preview: Middlesex Panthers

T20 pedigree Smashed the favourites Kent Spitfires in 2008 but were nigh-on abysmal last time around, winning only two group matches. Were eliminated in the 2005 quarter-finals, the only other time they have made it past the group stage. Captain Shaun Udal Overseas players Adam Gilchrist (Australia) Veteran batsman should send the Panthers' strike-rate through the roof, but only features in home fixtures and a limited number away. Iain O'Brien (New Zealand) Will play all the games Gilchrist doesn't. Venomous fast-paced bowler. David Warner (Australia) Quick-scoring, left-handed batsman will open with his compatriot Gilchrist. The first Australian cricketer picked for his country without first-class experience. Watch out for Owais Shah Rejected by England but still one of the most devastating hitters in the country. Prospects Good, particularly if their Australian opening pair hit their straps. How they're hoping to get the punters in Fans will have the chance to win a A$1m at each Lord's game, by padding up and proving their batting skills. The Pantherette cheerleaders make a return alongside a brand new mascot named Pinky… the Panther. Odds 12-1 Group fixtures 3 June Sussex Sharks (h) 6.15pm 9 June Somerset Sabres (h) 6.15pm 11 June Kent Spitfires (a) 5.30pm 13 June Essex Eagles (h) 2.40pm 15 June Glamorgan Dragons (h) 5.30pm 17 June Surrey Lions (h) 6.15pm 24 June Kent Spitfires (h) 6.15pm 26 June Glamorgan Dragons (a) 2.30pm 27 June Gloucestershire Gladiators (a) 2.30pm 2 July Sussex Sharks (a) 7.10pm 4 July Somerset Sabres (a) 2.30pm 8 July Surrey Lions (a) 6.30pm 10 July Hampshire Royals (a) 2.30pm 11 July Gloucestershire Gladiators (h) 2.30pm 16 July Hampshire Royals (a) 7.00pm 18 July Essex Eagles (a) 2.30pm