James Rew delivered a career-best performance, smashing an unbeaten 116 from just 56 balls to lead Somerset to an 18-run victory over Gloucestershire in the Vitality Blast at the Cooper Associates Ground, Taunton. The 22-year-old England Test debutant’s innings featured 14 fours and 5 sixes, propelling Somerset to a formidable total of 194-7.
Earlier, D’Arcy Short contributed significantly with both bat and ball. The Australian all-rounder took 3 wickets for 24 runs and top-scored in the chase with a rapid 59 from 34 balls. Despite a strong start, Gloucestershire faltered in the middle overs. Kamran Dharival’s quickfire 38 was not enough, as Riley Meredith’s tight bowling figures of 3-30 stifled the visitors, who finished on 176-7.
Gloucestershire won the toss and quickly put Somerset under pressure by dismissing openers Tom Banton and Will Smeed within a short span. However, Somerset faced setbacks of their own as Tom Kohler-Cadmore and Lewis Goldsworthy were dismissed amid a slump that saw the hosts slump to 98-5 at the halfway mark.
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Rew’s innings was a masterclass in resilience. After surviving a crucial dropped catch on 38, he accelerated with six boundaries and three sixes, including a record-equalling second-fastest T20 century for Somerset in just 43 balls. His relentless assault helped build a vital 47-run partnership with Craig Overton for the seventh wicket, setting the foundation for Somerset’s strong finish.
Gloucestershire’s chase was powered by D’Arcy Short and Miles Hammond’s 79-run opening stand. However, after initial dominance, wickets from Lewis Goldsworthy and Riley Meredith tilted the momentum back to Somerset. When Meredith removed Kamran Dharival in a key moment, Gloucestershire’s hopes faded.
Reflecting on his innings, James Rew said, “It’s a sweet win against a tough Gloucestershire side who beat us recently. I had luck on my side, especially after the dropped catch. I’m still learning this format but growing in confidence. The team’s support kept me going, and we knew a strong total was needed on this pitch.”
Gloucestershire captain Jack Taylor acknowledged Rew’s innings, lamenting missed opportunities but proud of his bowlers' work in the powerplay. Taylor looks forward to upcoming matches with optimism, despite today’s disappointment.