Somerset Cricket Club celebrated a momentous victory by clinching the 2023 Vitality Blast title, marking their first triumph in the competition since their previous Finals Day win in 2005. This impressive accomplishment unfolded through a series of spirited performances, culminating in a final clash against Essex, which Somerset won by 14 runs.
The journey to the title showcased Somerset’s resilience and determination. In the semi-final encounter, Somerset overcame Surrey by defending a modest total of 142-7, securing a 24-run victory. The Somerset bowlers showcased their prowess, and this trend continued in the final against Essex, where they once again defended a modest total, this time posting 145 all out. The pivotal role of New Zealand pace bowler Matt Henry cannot be understated. Henry’s outstanding bowling effort, claiming 4 wickets for 24 runs in the final, proved instrumental in Somerset’s success.
In the final, Henry’s spell included the decisive wicket of Daniel Sams, who had played a valiant innings of 45 runs off 26 balls. Tom Kohler-Cadmore’s exceptional diving catch at backward point was the defining moment that sealed victory for Somerset. Additionally, Ish Sodhi, another New Zealand cricketer, contributed significantly with his leg-spin, taking 3 crucial wickets for 22 runs. Captain Lewis Gregory’s leadership and all-round performance were also noteworthy, as he bagged 2 wickets for 25 runs.
Essex, who commenced their batting with an explosive start, amassing 27 runs in the first two overs, faced a dramatic collapse in their top-order. This collapse saw five wickets fall for a mere 28 runs. Kasey Aldridge’s impressive catch at point dismissed Adam Rossington, who had just delivered three consecutive boundaries off Henry. Although Daniel Sams attempted to resurrect the innings, partnering with Paul Walter (26 off 24), Sodhi’s leg-spin dismantled Essex’s revival. Sams, who managed to smash three sixes, briefly revived Essex’s hopes for a comeback before Kohler-Cadmore’s sensational catch brought an end to the proceedings, securing a remarkable second Blast title for Somerset.
Earlier in the tournament, Sean Dickson’s composed innings of 53 runs off 35 balls played a pivotal role in anchoring the Somerset innings. Essex’s bowlers showcased their skills, with Shane Snater delivering exceptional figures of 4 wickets for 13 runs in his four overs, while Paul Walter also contributed with 3 wickets for 29 runs.
The final wasn’t without its controversies, as a catch by Matt Critchley off his own bowling was ruled ‘not out’ by the third umpire due to concerns about control. Despite this, Somerset’s performance prevailed, and captain Lewis Gregory reflected on the victory with immense pride. Gregory emphasized the significance of the win, acknowledging Somerset’s reputation as the “nearly man” and expressing gratitude for the exceptional performances that culminated in their success.
For Essex, captain Simon Harmer acknowledged that while the team fought valiantly, they were ultimately outplayed. Harmer highlighted the fighting spirit of Essex but acknowledged that they couldn’t finish strong with the bat, leading to their defeat in the final.
In a tournament characterized by intense competition and remarkable displays of skill, Somerset’s victory emerged as a testament to their resilience, teamwork, and exceptional performances. The triumph not only secured the Vitality Blast title for Somerset after 18 years but also marked their emergence as a dominant force in T20 cricket.
