Somerset’s Andy Umeed continued his impressive form in the Metro Bank One-Day Cup, guiding his team to a three-wicket victory over Kent Spitfires at Taunton. Umeed’s unbeaten 114 off 121 balls proved crucial as Somerset chased down a target of 268 with 3.3 overs to spare.
Kent had posted a competitive total of 267 all out in 49 overs, with Joey Evison and Grant Stewart scoring half-centuries. However, Somerset’s left-arm spinner Lewis Goldsworthy claimed career-best List A figures of 4 for 44, while seamer Alfie Ogborne took 3 for 58.
Somerset’s chase got off to a shaky start, losing George Thomas early. However, Umeed and James Rew steadied the innings with a 133-run partnership. Rew reached his half-century off 47 balls, while Umeed followed suit off 62 deliveries.
Rew was eventually dismissed for 71, but Umeed continued to anchor the innings. He shared a 40-run stand with Sean Dickson before the latter fell for 23. Josh Thomas and Kasey Aldridge also departed cheaply, but Leach and Umeed kept Somerset in the hunt.
Umeed reached his century with a six off Charlie Stobo, and Somerset eventually reached their target with 3.3 overs remaining. The victory gives Somerset a strong start to their Group A campaign, while Kent will be disappointed to have let slip a winning position.
