Somerset’s Disappointing Season Ends with Five-Wicket Defeat
On September 28, 2024, Somerset’s disappointing end to the season culminated in a five-wicket defeat at the hands of Hampshire at Taunton. The visitors, led by skipper James Vince, clinched the runners-up spot in the Vitality County Championship Division One.
Batting first, Somerset were bowled out for 136, with Kyle Abbott claiming five wickets for 37 runs. In their second innings, the home side fared better, reaching 180 thanks to a gritty 59 from captain Lewis Gregory and a defiant 33 not out from Jack Leach. However, Abbott’s impressive match figures of 9 for 74 proved too much for the Somerset batters.
“This result ensured Hampshire finished second behind champions Surrey, while a frustrated Somerset had to settle for third place, their concerted challenge for all three trophies ending without a single title.”
Set a target of 121 to win, Hampshire lost early wickets, but Vince’s 54 and an unbeaten 44 from Liam Dawson guided the visitors to victory on the third afternoon, securing 19 points from the game.
The match saw a mix of cricket disciplines, from beach cricket-esque shots to the club cricket-style grit displayed by Gregory and Leach. Fantasy club cricket enthusiasts would have had plenty to analyze in this closely-contested encounter.
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