WORCESTER — Worcestershire Rapids produced a stunning all-round performance to comprehensively defeat Somerset by 131 runs at a sun-drenched New Road, securing their place in the final of the 2024 Metro Bank One-Day Cup.
In a repeat of the 2023 semi-final, which Somerset won, the Rapids turned the tables in emphatic fashion, posting a formidable 321 for 6 from their 50 overs before skittling the visitors for just 190, with Pakistani seamer Khurram Shahzad the chief destroyer with a magnificent four-wicket haul.
A Commanding First Innings Total
Worcestershire’s innings was built on a magnificent century from captain Jake Libby and a blistering late cameo from all-rounder Matthew Waite. After being put into bat, the Rapids lost opener Gareth Roderick early, but Libby and Kashif Ali steadied the ship with a crucial 98-run partnership for the second wicket.
Libby, playing the anchor role to perfection, compiled a masterful 117 from 128 deliveries, his innings a blend of classical strokeplay and intelligent running. He found a willing partner in Rob Jones (44), and the pair laid the platform for a late assault. That assault was provided by Waite, who bludgeoned an unbeaten 65 from just 36 balls, including five fours and four sixes, to propel Worcestershire well beyond the 300-run mark.
Somerset’s bowling attack, usually so potent, struggled for consistency on a good batting track. The key moments that swung the game in Worcestershire's favour included:
- The crucial drop of Libby on 42 by Tom Lammonby off the bowling of Jack Brooks.
- The expensive final five overs, which yielded 68 runs thanks to Waite's power-hitting.
- Somerset's inability to break the Libby-Jones partnership quickly enough in the middle overs.
Shahzad and Brown Rip Through the Top Order
Defending 322, Worcestershire needed early inroads, and they were provided in abundance by the new-ball pairing of Shahzad and Ethan Brown. The pressure told immediately as Brown trapped the dangerous Tom Banton lbw for just 5. Shahzad then produced a devastating spell from the New Road End, removing Tom Abell (12), the prolific Sean Dickson for a duck, and the experienced Tom Lammonby (18) in quick succession.
Shahzad’s figures of 4 for 48 were a testament to his skill and control, consistently hitting a challenging length and moving the ball off the seam. At 45 for 4, Somerset’s hopes of a record run-chase were in tatters. Captain Brett D’Oliveira praised his opening bowlers after the match, stating, "The way Khurram and Ethan set the tone was incredible. They executed the plans perfectly and put us in a position of strength we never relinquished."
Somerset's Middle Order Resistance Crumbles
A brief flicker of hope emerged for Somerset through a 58-run partnership between Lewis Goldsworthy (31) and James Rew (25). However, the introduction of spin from both ends applied a stranglehold, and the required run rate began to climb exponentially. Off-spinner Josh Baker broke the stand, bowling Rew, and from that point, it was a procession.
The Worcestershire bowling attack showcased its depth, with every bowler chipping in. Baker (2-38) and Waite (1-32) maintained relentless pressure, while Adam Finch mopped up the tail with two late wickets. Somerset's innings ultimately subsided to 190 all out in the 42nd over, a result that scarcely seemed possible during their powerful group stage campaign.
Road to the Final
This victory marks a remarkable turnaround for Worcestershire, who missed out on knockout qualification last season. Their journey to the final has been built on a blend of youthful exuberance and experienced heads. Key factors in their successful campaign have been:
- The consistent run-scoring of Jake Libby and Kashif Ali at the top of the order.
- The explosive finishing capabilities of Matthew Waite and Ben Cox.
- A versatile and penetrative bowling attack capable of taking wickets in clusters.
They now await the winner of the second semi-final between Hampshire and Lancashire, with the showpiece final scheduled for September 21st at Trent Bridge. Captain Libby, still clutching his man-of-the-match award, could barely contain his pride, saying, "To lead this group to a final at Trent Bridge is a special feeling. The lads were outstanding in every department today. We knew we had to be at our best to beat a side like Somerset, and we absolutely were."
For Somerset, it was a day to forget. Captain Tom Abell was gracious in defeat, acknowledging Worcestershire's superiority: "Full credit to Worcestershire, they outplayed us in all facets. We were below our best, and in a semi-final, you get punished for that. We’re gutted, but we have to learn from it."
Conclusion: A Day of Dominance for the Rapids
In front of a passionate home crowd, Worcestershire delivered a performance worthy of a finalist. Their total was above par, their bowling was clinical, and their fielding was energetic and sharp. The comprehensive nature of this victory will send a strong message to their opponents in the final.
While Khurram Shahzad will rightly grab the headlines for his four-wicket burst, this was a victory forged through a complete team effort, from Libby’s captain’s century to Waite’s explosive finish and the disciplined bowling unit. Worcestershire Rapids are headed to Trent Bridge, one win away from lifting the One-Day Cup.