S Poddar
Tom Abell’s unbeaten 152 powered Somerset to a stunning win against Warwickshire, reaching 413-5 to secure a five-wicket victory. His partnership with James Rew, who contributed 57 not out, was crucial in chasing down the target with just 4.2 overs remaining.
After Warwickshire declared at 281-8, Somerset faced a challenging task. Tom Banton added a valuable 81, and Tom Kohler-Cadmore chipped in with 49. Abell’s steady hand guided Somerset to their third County Championship win of the season, moving them to second place in the standings, 23 points behind Surrey
Warwickshire, still without a win, faced their third defeat in nine games. They remain just five points ahead of Worcestershire, hovering above the relegation zone.
Somerset’s chase began positively, with Andy Umeed scoring 30 before falling to Oliver Hannon-Dalby. Tom Lammonby was dismissed for 26 by Michael Booth, caught brilliantly by Ed Barnard. Kohler-Cadmore’s 138-run partnership with Abell was pivotal before Banton’s dismissal by Rob Yates off Barnard.
Migael Pretorius came in for quick runs but managed just 14 off 10 balls. With 111 needed from the final 20 overs, Rew found his form from last summer, and he and Abell kept the chase on track. Warwickshire delayed taking the new ball, but the softer ball strategy backfired as Abell and Rew finished the game with a series of boundaries. Abell’s final flurry of 4-4-6-6 sealed the win and his career-best score.
Both teams now take a 49-day break before resuming the County Championship on 22 August, where they face each other again at Edgbaston. Somerset will play Durham, and Warwickshire will host Kent in crucial matches that could determine their season’s outcomes.
Tom Abell reflected on his performance, stating, “This ranks among the best innings I’ve played. The pitch was great for batting, and while we felt confident, Warwickshire has one of the best attacks. Scoring over 400 on the final day was immensely satisfying.”
Warwickshire head coach Mark Robinson acknowledged the disappointment but remained optimistic, “Losing always brings regrets, but we’ve been playing positive cricket. Our declaration was part of that strategy. Despite some missed chances, there are many positives to take forward, and we won’t change our style of play.”
Key Performances
- Tom Abell: 152* (Career-best, guiding Somerset to victory)
- James Rew: 57* (Crucial in the final partnership)
- Tom Banton: 81 (Vital knock in the chase)
- Warwickshire: 412 & 281-8 declared (Close but fell short)
- Somerset: 284 & 413-5 (Successful chase)
Upcoming Matches
- Warwickshire vs. Somerset: Edgbaston, 22 August
- Warwickshire vs. Kent: Following week
- Somerset vs. Durham: 29 August
The County Championship resumes with critical fixtures as the season progresses into its final stages.
