ALEX Davies believes the T20 Blast can stand alongside the Big Bash and IPL as the best short format domestic competition in the world.

The Darwen ace has hit back to back half centuries to help Lancashire Lightning win their last two matches to leave the Red Rose second in the North Group ahead of tomorrow’s home clash with Derbyshire Falcons.

Davies played a key role in Lancashire’s victory in the competition in 2015 and is hoping to reach another finals day this summer.

And with the likes of Dwayne Bravo, Aaron Finch and Kane Williamson among the international stars taking part in this year’s tournament, Davies believes there are plenty of reasons to be proud of the Blast, now in its 16th season.

Asked if the competition was as good as any, the 24-year-old said: “I think so. I am not the only one to believe that.

“There are lot of high profile ex-cricketers out there that have said this is as good a competition as the Big Bash and the IPL.

“Sometimes the weather doesn’t agree with that but I think the T20 is becoming bigger by the year and it is a genuine career opportunity for some players. It is only going one way.

“It is in the height of the kids’ summer holidays at school so I think that is a good move and the more kids we can get down to watch and try to inspire them to play cricket, T20 cricket or four day cricket or whatever, then that is good for English cricket.”

This season the group stages are being played in one block, something that Davies believes will help improve the quality on show.

“That definitely helps,” he added. “I remember a few years ago we were playing Championship games and then a few T20s and that never really helps the preparation.

“I think in terms of standard and quality of cricket, when it is in a block the quality is definitely higher than it used to be.

“It can be a platform to sell your skills and really push your name forward.

“But I don’t think there is one particular format that pushes you forward, I think if you score 1,500 runs in the Championship that also pushes your name forward so there is opportunities in every competition.”

Davies has thrived at the top of the order, playing as a specialist batsman while he manages a finger injury, and he is excited about the potential within the Lightning ranks, particularly if they are able to call on England star Jos Buttler in the latter stages.

“There is a lot of power and a lot of depth in the batting even with some players still to come in,” added Davies who turned out for hometown club Darwen in the Lancashire League.

“We have signed James Faulkner, I think we get Jos back for quite a few games so if you put those names in the mix with the batters that we already have then it should be pretty exciting.”

Lancashire beat the Falcons by nine wickets earlier in the campaign and a repeat victory could take them top of the table.

Glen Chapple’s side then visit Leicestershire Foxes on Wednesday before hosting the Roses T20 clash on Friday as the group stage hots up.