Worcestershire Gain Ascendancy in County Championship Clash with Somerset

Somerset's hopes of securing a positive result against Worcestershire were dealt a blow on day three of their Vitality County Championship clash at Kidderminster. Despite a valiant century from Gareth Roderick, England spinner Shoaib Bashir's incisive spell of bowling put Worcestershire in the ascendancy.

Roderick's determined innings, which included 16 boundaries and a six, helped Worcestershire establish a first-innings lead of 142. His partnership with Jake Libby, who fell three runs short of a century, laid the foundation for Worcestershire's dominance.

Bashir, who had endured a quiet start to the season, found his rhythm on a wicket offering some turn. He removed Libby and Kashif Ali in quick succession, and his 28-over spell kept the Somerset batters on their toes.

Somerset's batting woes continued as Jason Holder dismissed Sean Dickson in the final over of the day. The Libby-Roderick partnership was a testament to their blossoming partnership, with Libby continuing his impressive form this season.

Contributions from Adam Hose, Brett D'Oliveira, and Joe Leach ensured Worcestershire pushed home their advantage. Sterling work by the ground-staff allowed play to commence at 12.10pm after heavy overnight rain, with only 10 overs lost.

Roderick's century was a highlight of the day, but Bashir's bowling and Worcestershire's collective batting effort put Somerset on the back foot. The match remains finely poised, with Somerset needing to bat with resilience and Worcestershire seeking to capitalize on their lead.

Tags: #VitalityCountyChampionship, #Somerset, #Worcestershire, #GarethRoderick, #ShoaibBashir