Surrey Avenge Somerset Defeat with Smith's Blast

Surrey's Jamie Smith propelled his team to a resounding 57-run victory over Somerset in the Vitality Blast, avenging their semi-final defeat last year. Smith's blistering 87 from just 38 deliveries laid the foundation for Surrey's third consecutive win.

Smith and Ollie Pope forged a formidable partnership, amassing 111 runs in 56 balls. However, Somerset's Ben Green triggered a dramatic collapse, claiming three wickets in a single over. Surrey lost their last six wickets for a mere 11 runs, slumping to 163 all out.

Somerset's response was marred by a lack of partnerships. Sean Abbott and Tom Curran shared six wickets, dismantling the defending champions for a paltry 106 in the 16th over.

Surrey's innings began with a shaky start, losing three wickets for just seven runs. But Smith's explosive knock, featuring seven sixes, ignited the home side's momentum. Pope provided stability, reaching 40 from 32 balls.

Somerset's fightback began with Roelof van der Merwe dismissing Pope. Green then claimed three wickets in quick succession, including Smith's dismissal for 87. Riley Meredith and Jake Ball completed Surrey's collapse.

In Somerset's reply, Abbott and Meredith stifled the top order, claiming the wickets of Tom Banton and Will Smeed. Tom Abell departed after mistiming a drive off Abbott. Tom Kohler-Cadmore threatened with two sixes but was run out by Abbott's direct hit.

Surrey continued to chip away at Somerset's batting lineup, with Abbott and Curran taking three wickets each. Curran sealed the victory by having Jake Ball caught at mid-on.

Tags: #VitalityBlast, #Surrey, #Somerset, #JamieSmith, #BenGreen