Beau Webster stole the show with a stunning century as Warwickshire secured their first win of the Vitality Blast season, defeating Somerset by six wickets at the Cooper Associates Ground in Taunton.
The Australian all-rounder smashed an unbeaten 112 off just 61 balls, featuring 9 fours and 7 sixes. Webster’s masterful innings formed the backbone of a 145-run partnership in 12.5 overs with Dan Mousley, who contributed a rapid 71 not out from 36 deliveries. Together, they propelled the Bears to their target of 216 runs with two balls to spare.
Somerset’s innings was spearheaded by Jordan Hermann, who top-scored with an aggressive 90* from 48 balls, including 9 fours and 6 sixes. Hermann combined with Lewis Gregory for a vibrant 117-run stand off only eight overs. Gregory’s blistering 55 came off just 26 balls, yet despite their efforts, Somerset succumbed to their fourth consecutive defeat in the Central and West Group.
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Somerset’s innings got off to a shaky start after being put in to bat, with openers Tom Banton and Josh Thomas falling cheaply. Hermann and James Rew rebuild with a calculated 59-run partnership before Rew’s dismissal. Hermann then accelerated, reaching a quick half-century and linking up with Gregory for a punishing late assault as Somerset posted 215-4.
Warwickshire’s chase began steadily with Rob Yates and Beau Webster adding 45 for the second wicket before Yates fell. Webster then anchored the innings while Mousley increased the scoring rate. Rain began to fall during the chase, but Warwickshire’s batsmen adapted well. Webster’s authoritative stroke play on a wet ball frustrated the Somerset bowlers, and his century came off 54 balls. Mousley’s quick fifty off 29 balls complemented Webster perfectly.
In the end, Warwickshire cruised to victory with Mousley’s calm finishing ensuring they reached their target despite a late wicket from Gregory. Somerset’s bowling coach Steve Kirby praised his side’s fight but acknowledged that Webster and Mousley’s partnership was simply too strong. Warwickshire’s all-rounder Webster credited his aggressive approach and the favorable conditions as key factors in their successful chase.
With this crucial win, Warwickshire hope to regain momentum after a slow start, while Somerset look to bounce back from their fourth consecutive loss.