Somerset Pile Up 440 on Opening Day, Banton and Rew Star

Somerset's batting prowess was on full display as they amassed a formidable 440 for seven on the opening day of their Vitality County Championship First Division clash against Kent at Taunton. Aggressive centuries from Tom Banton and James Rew propelled the hosts to a commanding position.

Banton, known for his exploits in limited-overs cricket, showcased his red-ball credentials with a career-best 133. His 174-ball knock was adorned with 19 fours and two sixes. Rew, who impressed last season, continued his fine form with a fluent 114 off 145 deliveries, including 12 fours and three sixes.

The pair forged a formidable 205-run partnership for the fifth wicket, dominating the Kent bowlers for over 42 overs. Earlier, Tom Lammonby contributed a solid 69 as Somerset's openers made a promising start.

Kent's seamers struggled to make an impact on a batting-friendly surface at the Cooper Associates County Ground. The visitors' only success before tea came when Lammonby was dismissed for 54, attempting to pull a boundary off Grant Stewart.

Rew and Banton took control after lunch, adding 132 runs for the fourth wicket. Rew reached his half-century off just 61 balls, while Banton brought up his third fifty of the summer. The duo continued to punish the Kent attack, with Banton reaching his century off 150 balls.

Rew followed suit, reaching his hundred with a boundary off Stewart. However, both batsmen fell shortly after, with Banton caught behind and Rew lbw to Joey Evison. Craig Overton contributed a quickfire 23, while Somerset skipper Lewis Gregory remained unbeaten on 26 at stumps.

Somerset's impressive batting display has put them in a strong position heading into day two. Kent will need to find a way to break through the hosts' resilient batting lineup if they are to have any chance of getting back into the contest.

Tags: #Somerset, #Kent, #VitalityCountyChampionship, #TomBanton, #JamesRew