Somerset comfortably booked their place in the Metro Bank One-Day Cup semi-finals with a commanding six-wicket victory over local rivals Gloucestershire at Taunton.
After winning the toss, Gloucestershire opted to bat first but struggled to build momentum, being bowled out for a modest 155 in 40.5 overs. Skipper Jack Taylor was the standout performer for the visitors, top-scoring with 43 runs. Somerset’s bowlers were disciplined, with Jake Ball and Tom Lammonby each taking three wickets. Left-arm spinner Jack Leach impressed with economical figures, delivering ten overs for just 23 runs.
Rain interruptions during the match led to a revised target of 149 runs for Somerset in 45 overs. Somerset’s chase was controlled and efficient, reaching the target with over 13 overs to spare. Captain James Rew led the charge with 46 runs, while his brother Thomas remained unbeaten on 40, guiding Somerset to victory.
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Gloucestershire’s innings was hampered early on by the loss of key batsman James Bracey, who was dismissed second ball by Jake Ball. The decision to bat first under gloomy skies and with the floodlights on seemed to backfire. Though Cameron Bancroft fought valiantly with 34 runs off 37 balls, supported by two sixes, the rest of the lineup couldn’t maintain the required tempo, with only Taylor and Ollie Price (25) reaching double figures.
On the other side, the Rew brothers shone brilliantly for Somerset during the successful chase. James contributed a crucial 46 runs off 52 balls, while his younger brother Thomas anchored the innings with an unbeaten 40 from 39 deliveries.
With this win, Somerset look forward to facing Group A winners Worcestershire in the semi-finals on Sunday.