In a breathtaking finale at Edgbaston, Somerset pulled off the highest successful chase in Vitality T20 Blast final history, overcoming Hampshire by six wickets with an over to spare. Chasing 195 to win, Somerset’s victory was largely shaped by a spectacular innings from Will Smeed, excellent support from Sean Dickson, and a lethal finish from skipper Lewis Gregory.
Hampshire set a daunting target of 194 for 6, bolstered by standout performances in their batting order. Toby Albert led the charge with a blistering 85 off 48 balls, featuring audacious shots—especially some reverse sweeps and impeccably timed boundaries. James Vince also provided solidity with a well-constructed 52, and the early stand with Albert laid the foundation for what appeared to be a match-winning total.
Somerset, meanwhile, stumbled early in their chase. Opener Tom Kohler-Cadmore got them off to a flashy start—his pull over the Hollies Stand one of the most eye-catching moments—before falling to a superb yorker from Sonny Baker. Tom Abell was dismissed for a duck soon after, leaving Somerset at 55 for 2 when momentum could so easily have tilted Hampshire’s way.
It was in the middle overs that Will Smeed took control. He struck 94 off 58 balls, lacing in 14 boundaries along the way. His timing, acceleration, and shot selection were exemplary, particularly when Hampshire’s bowlers tried to squeeze the pressure with spin and tighter lines. With Smeed at the crease, Somerset held their nerve.
A crucial turning point came when Sean Dickson, who nearly departed early, was dropped on 7. That reprieve proved costly for Hampshire. Dickson went on to forge a vital partnership with Smeed—88 off 51 balls—bringing Somerset back into striking distance. His unbeaten 33 added depth and composure, especially as Hampshire clawed back control earlier in the innings.
In the final over with 18 required, captain Lewis Gregory sauntered to the crease. Unfazed, he launched two sixes and a four in five balls to crush the tension and seal the win. His contribution—18 not out—was decisive, and demonstrated the brutal efficiency Somerset showed when the moment mattered most.
This win not only gives Somerset their third Blast title, but also sees them equal Hampshire and Leicestershire on the all-time Blast winners list. It was a culmination of consistency throughout the season. Somerset lost only three of their 17 matches, and their path to the final had been marked by strong performances across both group and knockout stages.
From Hampshire’s perspective, there’s cause for regret. Their opening innings had looked dangerous. Albert’s 85 was magnificent, and the early strikes and powerplay intensity from Vince and Albert had put Somerset under serious pressure. But when Somerset steadily piled up runs, the pressure on Hampshire’s bowlers and fielders showed cracks—missed chances, especially the drop of Dickson, loomed large.
For Somerset, this match will be remembered not just for record-breaking numbers, but for how they responded to adversity—early losses, tight bowling spells, and Hampshire’s imposing total. The ability to steady the chase, shift gears in the middle, and finish with intent reflects not just talent, but maturity.
In the grander scheme, this final will likely be seen as one of the all-time great T20 Blast victory performances. Somerset showed why they are among the elite: depth, resilience, and match-winning capability 1-11. Edgbaston bore witness not just to a record chase, but to proof that even daunting targets can be chased if a few players stand up, if belief holds, and if finishers deliver under pressure.
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