TAUNTON — Jack Leach delivered a masterclass in spin bowling, claiming figures of 6-63 as Somerset secured a rapid victory over Durham by an innings and 14 runs on day two of their County Championship clash at the Cooper Associates County Ground.
The left-arm spinner dismantled Durham’s batting lineup, exploiting the turning pitch with precision and guile. His performance ensured Somerset wrapped up the match inside two days, marking their second win of the season and reinforcing their position near the top of Division One. "It was one of those days where everything clicked," Leach said post-match. "The pitch offered turn, and I just tried to stay patient."
Leach’s Dominance with the Ball
Leach’s six-wicket haul was the centerpiece of Somerset’s dominant display. After Durham were asked to follow on, trailing by 180 runs, Leach struck early, removing opener Alex Lees for just 5. He then proceeded to dismantle the middle order, with key wickets including David Bedingham (23) and Graham Clark (18).
His ability to vary pace and extract sharp turn proved too much for Durham’s batters, who struggled to build any meaningful partnerships. Leach’s figures of 6-63 were his best in the County Championship this season, further cementing his reputation as one of England’s premier spinners.
Key Moments in the Match
Somerset’s victory was set up by a commanding first-innings total of 396, built on the back of Tom Abell’s 89 and Lewis Gregory’s aggressive 72. Durham, in response, were bowled out for 216, with Craig Overton (3-42) and Josh Davey (2-37) providing strong support to Leach.
- First Innings: Somerset 396 (Abell 89, Gregory 72; Potts 3-75)
- Durham’s Collapse: 216 all out (Leach 4-58, Overton 3-42)
- Follow-On: Durham 166 all out (Leach 6-63)
Durham’s Struggles Continue
For Durham, the match was another disappointing chapter in a difficult season. Their batting frailties were exposed once again, with only Bedingham and Ollie Robinson (44) offering resistance. Captain Scott Borthwick admitted, "We were outplayed in every department. Jack [Leach] was exceptional, and we didn’t have answers."
The defeat leaves Durham languishing near the bottom of the table, having won just one of their opening five matches. Their inability to handle quality spin bowling will be a major concern as the season progresses.
Somerset’s Championship Ambitions
Somerset, meanwhile, look like genuine title contenders. Their balanced attack, featuring Leach, Overton, and Gregory, has been formidable, while their batting lineup has shown depth. Head coach Jason Kerr praised his team’s ruthlessness: "To win inside two days is a statement. Jack led the way, but it was a complete team performance."
With England selector Luke Wright in attendance, Leach’s performance will also reignite discussions about his role in the national side ahead of the summer Test series. His ability to thrive in home conditions makes him a strong candidate to partner James Anderson and Stuart Broad.
Conclusion
Somerset’s emphatic win over Durham showcased their championship credentials, with Jack Leach’s six-wicket haul the standout performance. Durham, on the other hand, face an uphill battle to turn their season around. As the County Championship progresses, Somerset’s spin threat and all-round strength make them a team to watch.
Leach, reflecting on his match-winning spell, remained humble: "I’m just happy to contribute. The pitch helped, but credit to the lads for setting it up with the bat and in the field." With performances like this, Somerset’s title hopes are very much alive.