In a dramatic turn of events at the Cooper Associates County Ground in Taunton, Lancashire suffered their fourth consecutive defeat in the group stages as Somerset emerged victorious with an eight-wicket win. The match saw Somerset’s Kasey Aldridge shine with career-best figures of 6 for 33, while George Thomas notched up his maiden List A century.
The day started off on a disappointing note for Lancashire as they could only manage to post a sub-par total of 218 runs after losing the toss. Australian all-rounder Chris Green led the charge with 65 runs off 68 balls, supported by George Bell’s 56 off 81 deliveries. Tall seamer Aldridge wreaked havoc on Lancashire’s batting lineup, claiming six wickets in just 7.1 overs.
In response, Somerset chased down the target with ease, reaching 220 for 2 in 40.5 overs. Thomas played a stellar knock, remaining unbeaten on 106 off 142 balls, while James Rew contributed 60 not out and Lewis Goldsworthy added 38 runs. Lancashire’s bowlers struggled to make an impact as Somerset cruised to victory.
Despite a cautious start by Lancashire’s openers against Somerset’s bowlers, they failed to build momentum and kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Aldridge and the rest of Somerset’s bowlers capitalized on Lancashire’s woes, eventually bundling them out for a below-par total.
Green’s late fireworks with the bat could not salvage Lancashire’s innings, as they fell short of a competitive score. Somerset made light work of the target, thanks to Thomas and Goldsworthy’s aggressive batting display early on in the chase.
In the end, it was a comprehensive victory for Somerset, while Lancashire’s struggles in the group stages continued. The match highlighted Somerset’s dominance with both bat and ball, leaving Lancashire reeling from yet another defeat.
