After a year of near misses in 2024, Somerset County Cricket Club firmly established themselves as masters of the shortest format in 2025. Marking their 150th anniversary, the Cidermen delivered both unforgettable moments and silverware, even as the County Championship title—still a maiden prize—remained just beyond grasp.
The pinnacle of Somerset’s 2025 campaign was clinching their third Vitality Blast trophy. Having finished runners-up the previous year, Lewis Gregory’s side returned with renewed determination to reclaim the crown they first seized in 2023. Somerset made it their fifth consecutive finals day appearance, and for the third straight year, they battled in the final.
In a thrilling showdown at Edgbaston, Somerset chased a daunting finals-day record target of 195. Will Smeed’s explosive 94 off 58 balls set the stage, showcasing an innings for the ages. Captain Lewis Gregory then calmly sealed the win with an unbeaten 18, securing a six-wicket victory with an over to spare. Gregory summed it up well: “Year in, year out we’re challenging for this trophy. To get over the line in this fashion is mighty special.”
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While the Vitality Blast brought joy, Somerset’s pursuit of the County Championship—a prize never yet won—remained a defining challenge. Finishing third in Division One behind Nottinghamshire and Surrey, they stayed firmly in the title conversation throughout the season. April’s standout moment was Tom Banton’s astonishing 371 against Worcestershire, the highest individual first-class score in Somerset’s history. However, a late-season loss to Essex ultimately dashed hopes of a breakthrough title.
On the white-ball front, Somerset’s strength extended to the 50-over Royal London One-Day Cup. Despite losing nearly eleven players to The Hundred, they advanced to the semi-finals with a clinical quarter-final win against local rivals Gloucestershire at Taunton. Their journey ended at New Road with a heavy defeat to Worcestershire, dashing the dream of a limited-overs double but underscoring the squad’s depth and promising future.
Emerging stars also highlighted the year. Brothers James and Thomas Rew earned spots in the England Lions squad for the winter Australia tour, stepping into the national spotlight as top prospects. Meanwhile, Will Smeed extended his contract through 2027, declaring ambitions to break into the red-ball side. Archie Vaughan signed a new deal until 2028 after a breakout season solidified his role in the Championship team.
As Somerset reflect on a triumphant 2025, the focus swiftly turns to 2026. With key players Lewis Gregory and Craig Overton securing new long-term contracts, the core group that has delivered sustained success remains intact. The burning question is clear: can this talented squad finally capture the County Championship title at the Cooper Associates County Ground? The Taunton faithful will be waiting with bated breath—and fingers crossed that their Blackbird will sing loudly in victory.