Somerset kept their T20 Blast title defense alive by defeating Worcestershire in a winner-takes-all match to reach the quarter-finals. Led by Will Smeed’s 52, Somerset posted 195, while Jack Leach and Riley Meredith claimed three wickets each to dismantle Worcestershire for 116.
Essex earned a quarter-final place by beating Surrey by eight wickets at The Kia Oval. This result unfortunately eliminated Lancashire Lightning, whose own victory against Durham was not enough to secure a top-three spot. Meanwhile, Yorkshire progressed after an 18-run win over Nottinghamshire at Headingley. Despite Joe Root failing with the bat, Adam Lyth’s 52 and disciplined bowling from Andrew Tye and Root secured the win.
Hampshire confirmed a home quarter-final tie by overcoming Sussex in a tight chase led by Hilton Cartwright’s 70. In other results, Glamorgan beat Gloucestershire, Warwickshire defeated Northants, and Middlesex concluded their season with a win over Kent. Derbyshire also finished on a high by beating Leicestershire.
