TAUNTON — Somerset ended Yorkshire’s perfect start to the One-Day Cup with a thrilling 22-run victory at the Cooper Associates County Ground, thanks to standout performances from seamer Jake Ball and opener Archie Vaughan, who struck a career-best 95.
Vaughan’s Career-Best Knock
Archie Vaughan, the 19-year-old son of former England captain Michael Vaughan, delivered a mature and composed innings, falling just five runs short of his maiden List A century. His 95 off 112 balls anchored Somerset’s innings, providing the backbone for their total of 278/9. Vaughan’s knock included 10 boundaries and showcased his ability to rotate strike under pressure. "I’m disappointed not to get the hundred, but the win is what matters," Vaughan said post-match.
Key Contributions
Vaughan received solid support from Lewis Goldsworthy (42) and skipper Sean Dickson (35), but Somerset’s middle order struggled against Yorkshire’s disciplined bowling attack. Ben Cliff was the pick of the bowlers for Yorkshire, taking 3/52, while Matthew Revis and Dom Bess chipped in with two wickets apiece.
- Vaughan’s 95: A composed innings under pressure
- Goldsworthy’s 42: A crucial supporting role
- Cliff’s 3/52: Yorkshire’s standout bowler
Ball’s Four-Wicket Haul
Defending 278, Somerset’s bowlers struck early, with Jake Ball removing opener Will Fraine for just 8. Ball, the experienced seamer, finished with figures of 4/48, including the key wickets of Yorkshire captain Shan Masood (45) and in-form batter Harry Duke (38). "Jake’s spell was the difference," said Somerset coach Paul Tweddle. "He hit his lengths perfectly and never let them settle."
Yorkshire’s Chase Stumbles
Despite a fighting 67 from Matthew Revis, Yorkshire’s chase never gained full momentum. Dom Bess (31) and Ben Mike (28) provided late resistance, but Somerset’s bowlers maintained control, with Kasey Aldridge (2/42) and Josh Davey (1/47) applying the pressure in the middle overs.
- Ball’s 4/48: Broke Yorkshire’s top order
- Revis’ 67: A lone hand in the chase
- Aldridge’s 2/42: Tightened the screws
What This Means for the Tournament
Yorkshire’s first defeat of the campaign leaves them second in the North Group, while Somerset’s victory keeps them in contention for a knockout spot. "We needed this win to stay in the hunt," said Dickson. "The way Archie and Jake performed shows the depth we have."
With three group games remaining, both sides will look to build momentum. Yorkshire face Durham next, while Somerset take on Gloucestershire in a crucial West Country derby.
Conclusion
Somerset’s victory was built on Vaughan’s maturity with the bat and Ball’s precision with the ball, ending Yorkshire’s unbeaten run in style. The result sets up an intriguing final stretch in the One-Day Cup group stage, with both teams still in the mix for qualification.
"It’s a big win for us," Vaughan added. "We’ve shown we can compete with the best, and now we need to keep this going."