Somerset Seniors 60+ 1st XI were in a winner takes all match against Hampshire to reach the national Over 60’s final. They duly beat Hants by 12 runs at Hursley Park, scoring 246 for 6 before restricting Hants to 234 for 8.

Put in to bat Stephenson (109) & Poulton (71) had an opening stand of 175 in 33 overs; only 55 runs were added in the last 10 overs when Somerst were probably looking for a few more. Hants replied through Trestrail and Manders with 110 opening stand up to drinks, which put Hants in a strong position to win, but 3 wickets for only 9 runs to superb catches by Locke, Ashfold and Scott off his own bowling changed the tide. Good end of innings bowling by Brogden, Scott and Stevens plus continued excellent fielding and catching saw Hants requiring 24 runs off the last 2 overs which were bowled by Stevens and Botton.

Somerset now play Lancashire in the final on 3rd Sept at Oxford Downs CC, Standlake, Witney, OX29 7QH

As far as 2nd XI goes, a second place finish in the Southern phase 2 group was always the most likely outcome unless Surrey were to lose. Something that hadn’t happened for two years. But, going into this match, just in case Surrey slipped up, the 2nds had to win. Winning the toss and batting first, Hertfordshire posted 211 for 7, David Spring scoring 50. Simon Hardy returned 4 for 38 and Glyn Flinders put in another miserly shift, conceding just 19 runs from his 9 overs.

After tea, Somerset were always up with the rate, Simon Hopkinson leading the way with 64 from 70 balls and Neil Johnson striking 48 at the top of the innings. Three wickets in one over didn’t stop the 2nds winning with 4 wickets in hand in the last over, scoring 212 for 6. Big thanks went to Herts for laying on some hot food after the game. And then the inevitable news filtered through – Surrey had beaten Hampshire. Coming second to Surrey is no disgrace!! Without a doubt the most successful season yet for the seconds. A great effort by everyone.

70+ XI meanwhile, had a good win against Worcestershire, having changed to play the county team, rather than the friendly against Fossils, as in the fixture card. Worcs batted first and scored 165 for 7 off their 40 overs, Brian Pearson leading the way with 2 for 19 off his 8 overs. Highlight of our innings of 166 for 6 off 38.1 overs was 76 retired from Martin Betty and he was ably supported in a century opening stand by Nigel Manley. One must infer something from the fact that there were 5 run-outs in the match altogether, two for SSCA both by Bernard Raines and three for Worcs, including Bernard.

An excellent week all round for SSCA and we now look forward to the Lancashire encounter.