CHELMSFORD — Essex Eagles concluded their 2024 County Championship season on a triumphant note, sealing a seven-wicket victory over Somerset inside three days at the Cloud County Ground, a win fittingly capped by a towering six from young batsman Charlie Allison.
The result, while not enough to lift Essex from a fourth-place finish in the Division One table, provided a satisfying conclusion to a campaign of what-ifs, sending a packed final-day crowd home happy. For Somerset, the defeat confirmed a fifth-place finish, a respectable return to the top flight but one that will leave them ruing missed opportunities in this final fixture.
The foundation for Essex's victory was laid on the opening day by a formidable bowling display. After losing the toss and being asked to field, the home attack, led by the relentless Shane Snater (4/46) and veteran spinner Simon Harmer (3/72), exploited the helpful conditions to dismiss Somerset for a meagre 170. Only Tom Lammonby (47) offered significant resistance.
A Commanding First Innings Lead
In reply, Essex batted with purpose to build a commanding lead. While openers Dean Elgar and Nick Browne fell relatively cheaply, Tom Westley (56) and Matt Critchley (59) steadied the ship with a crucial partnership. The innings was given late impetus by a typically belligerent 44 from wicketkeeper Michael Pepper, guiding Essex to a total of 274 and a valuable first-innings advantage of 104 runs.
Facing a significant deficit, Somerset's second innings began in similarly fragile fashion, crumbling to 84 for 5. The visitors were staring at an innings defeat, but a magnificent rearguard action from wicketkeeper James Rew (87) and Lewis Gregory (64) injected hope. Their 118-run partnership for the sixth wicket dragged Somerset back into contention, setting Essex a tricky target of 198 to win.
Reflecting on the fightback, Somerset captain Lewis Gregory said, "It was a poor start from us, no doubt about it. But the character Rewsy and the lads showed to get us back in the game was outstanding. We gave ourselves a chance, which is all you can ask after that first innings."
Despite the partnership, Somerset's tail was swiftly mopped up on the third morning, with Jamie Porter and Sam Cook sharing the final five wickets. The stage was set for a potentially nervy run chase on a pitch that still offered assistance to the bowlers.
Allison's Finishing Flourish
Essex's pursuit began steadily, with Elgar and Browne seeing off the new ball. The loss of three quick wickets, including Elgar for a well-made 41, introduced a degree of tension. However, the experienced Westley joined the 22-year-old Allison at the crease, and the pair calmly dismantled any Somerset hopes with an unbroken partnership of 97.
Allison, in particular, played with a maturity beyond his years. He mixed solid defence with aggressive intent, signalling his confidence by striking two sixes. With the scores level, he didn't settle for a single, instead launching Migael Pretorius over the boundary to seal the win in spectacular fashion, finishing on 62 not out. Westley provided the perfect anchor, ending unbeaten on 39.
Essex captain Tom Westley was full of praise for his young teammate, stating, "For a young lad like Charlie to finish the game like that shows immense character. He's had a taste of it this season and to see him play with such freedom and clarity under a bit of pressure is fantastic for his development and for the future of this club."
The victory was a testament to Essex's strength in depth, with contributions coming from multiple players throughout the match. Key performances included:
- Shane Snater's 4-wicket haul that broke the back of Somerset's first innings.
- Matt Critchley's vital half-century to secure the first-innings lead.
- The crucial lower-order runs from Michael Pepper.
While the title ultimately eluded them, Essex Head Coach Anthony McGrath expressed pride in his team's efforts over the gruelling season. "It's been a long, tough campaign, and to finish with a win in front of our home supporters is exactly what we wanted," he said. "It shows the fight in the group. We'll regroup and come back stronger next year."
Season in Review and Looking Ahead
The 2024 season will be viewed with a sense of slight frustration for Essex, who were in the title mix until the final rounds. A combination of weather-affected draws and narrow losses ultimately proved costly. However, the emergence of young talents like Charlie Allison and the consistent performances of senior players provide a solid platform for 2025.
For Somerset, consolidation in Division One was the primary objective, which they achieved. The continued development of James Rew as one of the country's premier wicketkeeper-batters is a major positive, though they will seek greater consistency from their top order in the seasons to come.
The match also served as a farewell for a club legend, as veteran seamer Jamie Porter took the final Somerset wicket in what is expected to be his last Championship appearance for the county after a storied career. The standing ovation he received was a fitting tribute to his service.
As the shadows lengthened over the Chelmsford ground, the sound of Charlie Allison's winning six will linger long in the memory. It was a moment that encapsulated the promise of youth and provided a perfect, explosive full stop to Essex's domestic summer.