Somerset produced a stunning performance to claim the T20 Blast crown, chasing down a daunting target against Hampshire in the final at Edgbaston. Powered by Will Smeed’s explosive 94, the side completed the highest Finals Day chase in history, sealing a six-wicket victory with an over to spare.
Hampshire had set a formidable 194 for six, built on a blazing opening stand between James Vince and tournament top-scorer Toby Albert. Vince played with his trademark flair while Albert anchored the innings with a classy 85 off 48 balls, peppered with innovative strokes and wristy flicks. Their partnership of 97 gave Hampshire the perfect launchpad, and late contributions from Benny Howell ensured they posted the second-highest total in Blast history.
Somerset’s reply began brightly, with Smeed in commanding form. He struck boundaries all around the ground, keeping his side in touch with the asking rate even as wickets fell. Tom Kohler-Cadmore threatened briefly before being undone by a rapid yorker from Sonny Baker, but Smeed’s presence ensured Somerset remained in the hunt.
The equation grew steep in the middle overs, with 76 required from the last six. Sean Dickson, in his final outing for the club, was given a reprieve when dropped on seven, a costly moment for Hampshire. He made it count, combining with Smeed to slash the deficit before the opener finally holed out on 94. With 18 still needed, Lewis Gregory stepped up, blasting 18 runs from five balls to carry Somerset home in style.
It was a fitting climax to a thrilling Finals Day. Earlier, Somerset had brushed aside Lancashire by 23 runs in their semi-final, while Hampshire advanced thanks to a spectacular century from Chris Lynn, who hammered 108 not out, including five consecutive sixes in one over.
The victory gave Somerset their third Blast trophy, drawing them level with Hampshire and Leicestershire on the all-time list, and their second in three years. The celebrations at Edgbaston underlined the unity and spirit in the squad, with Smeed hailing the achievement as a “special night” alongside his teammates.
For Hampshire, the defeat capped a difficult week marked by off-field setbacks and the departure of their long-serving coach. Despite their strong batting display, they were undone by Somerset’s resilience and firepower in a contest that will be remembered as one of the greatest Blast finals.
