Warwickshire’s Kai Smith emerged as an unlikely hero, smashing an unbeaten 130 to guide his team to a thrilling four-wicket victory over Worcestershire in the Metro Bank One Day Cup quarter-final at Edgbaston.
Chasing a challenging target of 286, Warwickshire found themselves in dire straits at 77 for 5. However, Smith, playing in only his second List A match, displayed remarkable composure and skill to rescue his side.
The 19-year-old right-hander played with a freedom and fluency that belied his inexperience. He struck 13 fours and 3 sixes in his match-winning knock, which came off just 104 deliveries.
Smith’s innings was perfectly complemented by a solid 75 from Will Rhodes, who anchored the chase and provided valuable support. The pair shared a crucial 181-run partnership for the sixth wicket, guiding Warwickshire to victory with six balls to spare.
Earlier, Worcestershire had posted a competitive 286 for 9, thanks largely to a stylish century from captain Jake Libby. The opener struck 112 from 115 balls, building on a solid foundation laid by Ed Pollock’s 54.
Ethan Brookes and Tom Taylor also made significant contributions with the bat, while Fateh Singh and Tom Hinley provided late impetus with some lusty blows.
Warwickshire’s bowlers had initially struggled to contain Worcestershire’s batsmen, but they fought back admirably in the latter stages. Ed Barnard, Jake Lintott, and Rae all picked up wickets, with Rae finishing with impressive figures of 3-54.
The victory sends Warwickshire into the semi-finals of the Metro Bank One Day Cup, where they will face Glamorgan on Sunday. Smith’s heroics have earned him widespread praise and have underlined his potential as a future star of the game.
