Gloucestershire’s dominance in the Vitality Blast continued as they secured a resounding eight-wicket victory over Sussex in the second semi-final at Edgbaston. The triumph sets up a thrilling West Country showdown with local rivals Somerset in the final, giving Gloucestershire a chance to claim their first silverware in nearly a decade.
Sussex’s batting woes began early as David Payne’s swing proved too much for Daniel Hughes, who was dismissed for just one run. Matt Taylor then joined the party, claiming the wickets of Harrison Ward and James Coles to leave Sussex reeling at 35 for 4 after the powerplay.
Ollie Price and Tom Smith continued the onslaught, with Price dismissing Tom Clark and Fynn Hudson-Prentice. Smith then removed John Simpson and Ollie Robinson, leaving Sussex stranded on 64 for 7.
Jack Carson and Ollie Robinson briefly rallied, adding 37 runs, but Smith returned to dismiss Robinson and James Bracey completed a stumping to remove Tymal Mills. Payne wrapped up the innings in the 18th over, conceding just nine runs in a stellar display.
Gloucestershire’s chase was far less eventful. Despite losing Miles Hammond early, Cameron Bancroft and James Bracey put on a 54-run partnership to break the back of the chase. Bracey sealed the victory with a mighty six over long-off, securing Gloucestershire’s place in the final with 38 balls to spare.
