TAUNTON — Somerset secured a dominant 95-run victory over Essex in the Vitality Blast, booking their place in the quarter-finals thanks to a blistering 90 from Tom Kohler-Cadmore.
Kohler-Cadmore's Explosive Innings
Tom Kohler-Cadmore delivered a masterclass in T20 batting, smashing 90 off just 39 balls to set up Somerset's imposing total of 234-5. His innings included 10 fours and 5 sixes, dismantling Essex's bowling attack with ruthless efficiency. The 29-year-old's performance was the backbone of Somerset's innings, ensuring they posted a daunting target.
Speaking after the match, Kohler-Cadmore said, "It was one of those days where everything clicked. The pitch was good, and I just tried to stay aggressive and put the bowlers under pressure." His partnership with Will Smeed (45 off 28) laid the foundation, while Lewis Gregory's late cameo (22* off 9) added the finishing touches.
Essex's Struggles in the Chase
Essex's reply never gained momentum as Somerset's bowlers struck early and often. The visitors were reduced to 36-4 inside the powerplay, with Craig Overton (2-18) and Jake Ball (2-25) doing the damage. Daniel Sams top-scored with 37, but Essex were bowled out for 139 in just 15.4 overs.
Key moments in Essex's collapse:
- Adam Rossington dismissed for a duck by Overton in the first over
- Michael Pepper (15) and Robin Das (12) falling to Ball in quick succession
- Matt Critchley run out for 5 after a mix-up with Sams
Somerset's Quarter-Final Hopes
With this win, Somerset confirmed their place in the knockout stages, sitting comfortably in the top four of the South Group. Captain Lewis Gregory praised his team's all-round performance, saying, "We've been building towards this kind of display. The batting was explosive, and the bowlers executed their plans perfectly."
Somerset's recent form has been impressive, with four wins in their last five matches. Their strong points include:
- Powerplay dominance (averaging 60+ runs while taking early wickets)
- Death bowling (economy under 8 in the last five overs)
- Fielding (only 2 dropped catches in the last 3 games)
Key Player Contributions
Beyond Kohler-Cadmore's heroics, Somerset's success was built on collective contributions:
- Craig Overton – 2-18 and a spectacular catch
- Ben Green – 1-22 and 15* off 6 balls
- Roelof van der Merwe – 1-24 with tight middle-over control
Essex's Playoff Chances Dented
For Essex, the heavy defeat leaves them needing wins in their remaining games to stay in contention. Head coach Anthony McGrath admitted, "We were outplayed in every department today. The powerplay with both bat and ball cost us dearly."
Essex's issues were compounded by injuries to key bowlers, with Sam Cook missing the match and Shane Snater leaving the field early. Their death bowling was particularly expensive, conceding 68 runs in the last four overs.
Looking Ahead
Somerset will face Gloucestershire in their final group game, aiming to secure a home quarter-final. Essex must beat Hampshire and hope other results go their way. The quarter-final draw will take place on June 30, with the top two teams from each group earning home advantage.
Reflecting on the tournament so far, Kohler-Cadmore added, "We've got the squad to go all the way. If we keep playing like this, we'll be tough to stop." Somerset last won the Blast in 2005 and will be hoping this year's campaign ends their long wait for another title.
With the knockout stages looming, Somerset's emphatic victory sends a strong message to their rivals. Their blend of explosive batting and disciplined bowling makes them genuine contenders for the trophy.