Mason Crane aided by Afridi ahead of Finals Day

Mason Crane has been picking Hampshire overseas star Shahid Afridi's brain ahead of the Natwest T20 Blast finals day.

The homegrown leg-spinner has been trying to replicate Pakistani legend Afridi's T20 skills while the pair have been training together at the Ageas Bowl.

Crane is Hampshire's highest wicket-taker in the competition, with 17 scalps, and also boasts the best economy.

The Shoreham-born 20-year-old has been released by England's having been included in the Test squad for the opening two Test against West Indies – and also made his international bow in two T20Is earlier in the summer.

Hampshire face Nottinghamshire in the second semi-final at Edgbaston on Saturday. Afridi sent Hampshire to Finals Day with a stunning 101 with the bat in the quarter-finals.

And Crane said: "I got to know him a little bit last year, I didn’t play a lot of T20s but I was around. This year we’ve got on a bit better as I’ve played a few more games. 

"It’s been great to pick his brains because he’s obviously played a lot of cricket, he’s a very experienced player, and he’s still got it like he showed in the quarter final.”

Crane has also praised England's spin coach Saqlain Mushtaq for helping him while linking up with England.

Crane added: "Obviously I was here [Edgbaston] for the first Test of the series a couple of weeks ago, so I’ve spent a bit of time here recently, and hopefully it’s another good occasion like that was.

"I’ve learned a lot from Saqqy, built a good relationship over the last few weeks, had a taster of him at "Worcester in that Lions game but it’s been really good to have a couple of weeks in a row with him, and I’m looking forward to having another week with him at Lord’s.”

Hampshire were last at finals day two years ago, their sixth consecutive time at the showpiece event. Crane was included in the squad but didn't play but director of cricket Giles White allowed him to practice in front of a full house.

He said: "I didn’t play on the day. I’d played our last three group games, but then Daws came back for the quarter final [he’d been on loan at Essex]. 

"I’d like to think I’m going to get out there this time and experience the big occasion. Last time it was a massive day so hopefully I can get out there and experience it.

"Giles [White] was pretty keen for me to have a bowl in the middle before the game in front of that many people, just to warm up. To be honest I think that’s helped. 

"Obviously I’ve had a bit of big game experience this year as well, and I think that will stand me in good stead. I’ve loved it, loved every minute. I’ve learned a lot."