TAUNTON — Somerset staged a remarkable recovery after early Nottinghamshire breakthroughs, with half-centuries from James Rew, Tom Abell, and Tom Banton guiding them to a competitive total against the County Championship Division One leaders at Taunton.
Early Struggles for Somerset
Nottinghamshire’s seamers made early inroads after Somerset elected to bat, reducing the hosts to 45 for 3 inside the first hour. "We knew the first hour would be crucial, and the bowlers executed their plans perfectly," said Nottinghamshire captain Haseeb Hameed. The visitors struck early with:
- Dillon Pennington removing opener Sean Dickson for 12
- Brett Hutton dismissing Andy Umeed lbw for 8
- Lewis Gregory trapping Tom Lammonby in front for 14
At 45 for 3, Somerset were in deep trouble, but a composed partnership between James Rew and Tom Abell steadied the ship before lunch.
Rew and Abell Lead the Fightback
James Rew, the young wicketkeeper-batter, continued his fine form with a patient 68, while skipper Tom Abell contributed a gritty 59. The pair added 112 for the fourth wicket, frustrating Nottinghamshire’s attack. "They bowled well early on, but we knew if we got through that phase, runs would come," said Rew.
Abell, in particular, played with authority, driving confidently through the covers before falling to a sharp catch at slip off spinner Liam Patterson-White. Rew followed soon after, edging behind off Hutton, but the foundation had been laid.
Banton’s Counter-Attack
Tom Banton then took charge, playing a typically aggressive innings. His 74 off just 89 balls included 10 fours and a six, shifting momentum firmly in Somerset’s favor. "Banton’s innings was the turning point—he took the game away from us," admitted Nottinghamshire’s Brett Hutton.
Supported by Lewis Goldsworthy (32*) and Craig Overton (24*), Banton ensured Somerset finished the day strongly at 298 for 6. Nottinghamshire’s bowlers, initially dominant, were left searching for answers as the pitch flattened out.
Key Moments
- Early wickets: Nottinghamshire’s seamers exploited helpful conditions
- Rew-Abell stand: 112-run partnership rebuilt the innings
- Banton’s acceleration: Shifted pressure back onto Notts
Nottinghamshire’s Response
Despite Somerset’s recovery, Nottinghamshire remain confident. "We’re still in a good position—if we can knock them over early tomorrow, we’ll be chasing a manageable total," said Hameed. The visitors, unbeaten in Division One, will rely on their batting depth to respond.
Conclusion: A Hard-Fought Day
Somerset’s fightback showcased their resilience, with Rew, Abell, and Banton all stepping up when needed. Nottinghamshire, however, will feel they let slip an opportunity to dominate after their early breakthroughs. Day two promises another intriguing battle between bat and ball.
"Credit to Somerset—they dug deep and played some excellent cricket. But we’re still in this game," concluded Hameed, setting the stage for an absorbing contest.