Essex Women's wicket-keeper batter Ariana Dowse will join Northamptonshire on loan.
Dowse, 24, will join up with the Northants squad for their next two Vitality Blast games in a short-term loan deal.
The 24-year-old will be available for the Steelbacks remaining T20 fixtures - against Yorkshire at Headingley, Leeds followed by Derbyshire at the County Ground, Derby.
Northamptonshire currently sit third in the Women's League 2 North Group table, winning two games out of the six played, three points a drift of Leicestershire in second place.
The keeper-batter has featured seven times so far this season for Essex Women, scoring 166 runs at an average of 33.20 and a high-score of 44.
Go well Ari!
The Essex Men are back in action under the lights at Chelmsford, set to thrill a sold-out Friday night crowd as they take on the Sussex Sharks Men in round 12 of the Vitality Blast.
Essex were unable to make it back-to-back wins on Tuesday, as they fell to defeat against a strong Somerset side, following victory against Surrey on Sunday.
Chris Silverwood's side were victims to a 95-run defeat against table-topping Somerset at the Cooper Associates Ground, despite a spirited effort from young all-rounder Noah Thain.
After winning the toss under the Taunton floodlights, Essex initially struck early through Mohammad Amir, who removed Tom Banton for 15 thanks to a sharp catch at mid-on. Amir was the standout performer with the ball, returning exceptional figures of 3-22 from his four overs amidst an otherwise tough night for the Essex attack.
However, Tom Kohler-Cadmore’s 90 from just 39 deliveries – featuring 8 fours and 7 sixes – took the game away from the Eagles. He powered Somerset to an imposing 225-6, dominating partnerships with Will Smeed (32) and Tom Abell (20), as Essex struggled to contain the flow of runs.
The chase required an explosive start, and Paul Walter obliged with 24 from 12 balls, taking 15 from Craig Overton’s opening over. However, wickets fell in a flurry as the Somerset seam attack took hold.
Riley Meredith bowled Michael Pepper with a peach of a delivery, before Matt Henry – playing his final game before departing for international duty – removed both Walter and Benkenstein in quick succession. Essex were 48-5 inside the powerplay.
There was late resistance from 19-year-old Noah Thain, who played with maturity beyond his years. The England U19 prospect struck four sixes in an eye-catching 38 off just 17 balls, briefly igniting hopes of a recovery. But his dismissal – caught at long-on off Overton – brought Essex’s innings to a close at 130 in 14.1 overs.
Director of Cricket Chris Silverwood has selected a 15-player squad for the visit of Sussex at the Ambassador Cruise Line Ground.
Rookies Mackenzie Jones and Charlie Bennett remain in the squad whilst Sam Cook returns to Chelmsford following his involvement in the England Men's Test squad.
Dean Elgar is being rested and rotated at this stage of the Vitality Blast competition to manage his workload ahead of the two upcoming Rothesay County Championship matches at the back end of this month.
Captain: Tymal Mills
Overseas Players: Nathan McAndrew (Australia, all group stage), Gurinder Sandhu (Australia, all group stage), Daniel Hughes (Australia, full competition)
Finals Day Appearances: Six (2007, 2009, 2012, 2018, 2021, 2024)
Titles: One (2009)
2024 Finish: Semi-finalists
2024 Leading Run-Scorer: Daniel Hughes (596)
2024 Leading Wicket-Taker: Tymal Mills (24)
Sussex Sharks squad: Tymal Mills (c), Henry Crocombe, John Simpson (wk), Danny Lamb, Oli Carter, Jack Carson, Ollie Robinson, Tom Clark, James Coles, Fynn Hudson-Prentice, Ari Karvelas, Harrison Ward, Nathan McAndrew, Tom Alsop, George Thomas, Daniel Hughes.
Essex Men were denied victory last time out against the Sharks after a torrential downpour of rain in Hove curtained the match early as both sides had to settle for a draw.
In a game reduced to 17 overs a side, Jordan Cox, making only his second appearance in the competition this season after recovering from injury, hit four successive balls from off-spinner Jack Carson for six on his way to a 47-ball 82 in an imposing total of 177 for four.
Shane Snater then took three wickets without conceding a run as Sussex slumped to 23 for 3 after 3.1 overs when the rain which had delayed the start returned at 9.35pm. Umpires Martin Saggers and Hassan Adnan abandoned the game shortly afterwards as the rain set in.
It was a frustrating outcome for Chris Silverwood's side who displayed a brilliant all-round performance which was highlighted by a high-class contribution from England international Cox and a brutal opening spell from Snater.
Click here for Part 1 of the team-by-team preview of each of this year’s South Group contenders.
Click here for Part 2 of the team-by-team preview of each of this year’s South Group contenders.
We can confirm that this match against Sussex is SOLD OUT - therefore no more tickets are available to purchase.
However, you can follow the action via the Club’s live stream. This is available on Essex Cricket TV’s YouTube channel or head to the Matchzone for a video scorecard, stats and clips of the action.
The England Men under 19s are playing in a four day Test match at the Ambassador Cruise Line Ground this summer!
They will face India Men under 19s, including 14-year old IPL superstar Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who became the youngest player bought in an IPL auction after being selected by Rajasthan Royals. He is also the youngest player to score a century in IPL history!
Day one will begin on July 20 with the final day concluding on July 23.
Tickets are still available via our Ticket Site, so have a browse and get yourself down to CM2 to watch the next generation of international cricketers.
The Vitality Blast returns to Chelmsford this week for the final Friday night T20 clash under the lights in front of a sold out crowd.
Sussex Sharks Men are the visitors to the Ambassador Cruise Line Ground as they face the Eagles in the penultimate home fixture of the campaign.
Tickets for the game are sold out and will not be available on the gates. There are a limited number of tickets remaining for the final ground home game of the competition against Hampshire Hawks on Thursday 17 July - book now to avoid disappointment.
This is an all ticket match and if you have digital tickets, please make sure you download them to the 'ECCC Wallet' app before arriving at the ground.
Gates will open at 5:30pm and spectators can enter the ground via the Main Entrance on New Writtle Street or the Tees River Gate, located via Sky Blue Pastures, which is the closest entrance to Chelmsford City Centre and the Bus and Train stations.
Spectators are advised to arrive early to allow ample time to enter the ground and locate your seat. Bag checks will be in operation on entry to the ground.
Re-admittance is not permitted for standalone Men's Vitality Blast fixtures.
Gates Open: 5:30pm
Toss: 6:30pm
Start of Play: 7pm
Click to view more information
The Ambassador Cruise Line Ground is a cashless ground, which includes all food and drink purchases in the Doug Insole Pavilion and concourse areas. The Essex Cricket Store is located behind the Doug Insole Pavilion and accepts both card and cash payments.
Friday is set to be bright with sunshine forecast throughout the day and highs of 29°. We advise that you stay well hydrated throughout your visit and water stations are located at all bar areas.
Please also bring suitable sun protection for you and your group and sun lotion and hats will be available to purchase from the Essex Cricket Store.
Parking:
• Spectators travelling by car will need to locate a public car park in the proximity of the ground as there is no parking available on-site at the Ambassador Cruise Line Ground.
• The High Chelmer multi-storey will be open for this match until 11pm. View opening hours and tariffs for city centre public car parks - here
• The Meteor Way car park is available for Members to pre-book - here.
Public Transport:
• Chelmsford Bus Station is situated on Duke Street, next to Chelmsford Train Station, with connections to all over the county. Alternatively, bus numbers 13, 46 and C1 shuttles, stop on New London Road, which is approximately a two-minute walk to the Ground, via New Writtle Street.
• Chelmsford Railway Station, managed by Greater Anglia, is a 10-minute stroll from the Ambassador Cruise Line Ground. Direct train services depart regularly from Chelmsford to London, Stratford, Shenfield, Romford, Colchester, Ipswich and Norwich. Chelmsford is situated on the Liverpool Street to Norwich mainline.
There are no scheduled engineering works for Friday on the Norwich to London Liverpool Street line.
Spectators are able to enter the ground via the Main Gate located on New Writtle Street or through the Tees River Gate. Please enter through the gate nearest your seat location.
• The Doug Insole Pavilion is open for Members and entry is only upon the presentation of a valid ticket. This facility is accessible by entering the ground through the Main Gate.
General Admittance:
• Supporters who have purchased digital tickets can enter the ground by scanning the valid ticket once added to the 'ECCC Wallet'. Instructions on how to access the app is included at the ticket purchase stage and can be downloaded via the App Store or Google Store and please download your tickets before arriving at the ground.
Make sure you have your match ticket available on your phone so it is easily accessible for ticket scanning on arrival. Please do not take a ‘screen grab’ of your tickets as that will not be read by the scanners and you may be refused entry.
Tickets can also be transferred to friends and family who also have the app to make entry quicker and easier. Follow the instructions within the app for an easy transfer around your group.
• In the event of showers forecast on the day of the match, spectators can bring a small umbrella into the ground but metal spiked umbrellas are not permitted.
• Please note, Block 29-31 are our family stands and is located near accessible toilet facilities which also includes baby changing facilities. Block 30 is strictly alcohol-free for all spectators and we ask all spectators seating in this area to refrain from drinking or bringing alcohol into this block.
• There are two retail stores open for this game with the Essex Cricket Store located in the blue area open for the duration of the match.
Our pop-up store will also be open and is located by the Tees River Gate selling a range of merchandise, clothing and memorabilia for your visit.
• Spectators are able to access the full concourse of the ground and can visit the Club Store and food court areas during your visit.
• The Club Store and Membership & Ticketing Office will be open for spectators for the duration of your visit.
• A faith and reflection room is available for all spectators who wish to use this facility. It is open for the duration of the match and located within the Price Forbes Graham Gooch Cricket Centre.
• There is a sensory and family room situated near the Tees River Gate. Should you need to use it, please contact your nearest steward.
• Public Wi-Fi is available at the Ambassador Cruise Line Ground for every matchday giving you the opportunity to share photos and videos of your Eagles experience. Simply logon to 'EC-Public' from your seat to access.
• If you experience any anti-social or discriminatory behaviour during your visit, please contact your nearest steward. Alternatively, you can email [email protected] or text 'RESPECT' including your stand and issue to 60066.
• The Food Court is located in the blue area of the ground by the Essex Cricket Store where Anne's Pantry will be offering a variety of food. Anne's Pantry food kiosks will also be offering a choice of hot meals, cakes/snacks, and drinks from their other outlets located at the Graham Gooch End and Sir Alastair Cook End. You can also enjoy a range of greek options from Greek Boys, serving gyros wraps, souvlaki and loaded Greek fries.
They will be serving a range of meals suitable for all dietary requirements including vegan, vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free, as well as children's portions.
• We also welcome our partners, Zambrero for 2025 who will be serving up burritos and rice bowls on T20 matchdays this season.
• There will be a Gin & Fizz bar also located by Sir Alastair Cook End.
• The Level Head Bar is situated behind the Doug Insole Pavilion and is the perfect space to relax with a drink in the beer garden and soak in the atmosphere. You will also find our Gin & Fizz bar in this area serving up cocktails, mocktails and other spirits.
• The Doug Insole Pavilion will be welcoming Members with valid tickets through its doors and serving a wide range of hot and cold drinks from the bar. A choice of snacks will also be available to purchase.
• Other refreshment kiosks include bar areas located at either end of the ground in County Corner and Spinner's Bar.
• Spectators are not permitted to bring alcohol into the ground for this fixture. However, food and non-alcoholic beverages are allowed providing there is no glass or sharp objects such as cutlery.
• Please note that the ground is a cashless ground, so please make sure you bring a suitable method of payment for your visit.
Accessible Parking:
Accessible car parking spaces are located at The Ambassador Cruise Line Ground and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note that these cannot be pre-booked before visiting to provide an equal opportunity for all supporters.
Accessible Seating:
Accessible seating is located in the Tom Pearce Lower and Block 31, and there is also a wheelchair-accessible lift in Block 18 for spectators seated in this area.
Carers can enter the ground on a companion ticket which is free of charge. This is upon the presentation in the Membership & Ticketing Office or on the gate with proof of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for people under 16 years old.
Accessible Facilities:
The accessible toilets located at the rear of the Doug Insole Pavilion, while other accessible toilet facilities are available by Block 31.
We also offer a dedicated Changing Places Room, available for anyone who may benefit from additional space, support, or specialist equipment—regardless of access needs, disability, or whether accompanied by a carer.
You’ll find the Changing Places facility located in front of the Price Forbes Graham Gooch Cricket Centre.
At the conclusion of the game, we ask that spectators leave the ground in a safe and patient manner. Stewards will be on hand to help direct you safely out of the ground.
We hope you have an enjoyable visit to Chelmsford and get in touch with us by email if you have any further questions at [email protected] or via the Club's official Twitter and Facebook channels.
This match will be available to watch via the Club's live stream which can be found at essexcricket.org.uk or on the Essex Cricket YouTube channel.
You can visit the Essex Cricket Matchzone for a live scorecard, clips of the action and match statistics, as well as match coverage via the Club's X, Facebook and Instagram channels.
England U19s Men will play two Youth Test matches in July, culminating in a trip to the Ambassador Cruise Line Ground later this month.
Tickets and Hospitality are now on sale for the four-day Second Youth Test Match which will begin in Chelmsford on Sunday 20 July.
England have selected a 15-player squad for the Youth Test series which will see Warwickshire batter, Hamza Shaikh, lead the side.
England U19s Men Youth Test squad:
Hamza Shaikh (Warwickshire – captain)
Tazeem Ali (Warwickshire)
Jaydn Denly (Kent)
Rocky Flintoff (Lancashire)
Alex French (Surrey)
Alex Green (Leicestershire)
Jack Home (Worcestershire)
Ben Mayes (Hampshire)
Sebastian Morgan (Middlesex)
James Minto (Durham)
Thomas Rew (Somerset)
Aaryan Sawant (Middlesex)
Ekansh Singh (Kent)
Jay Singh (Yorkshire)
Archie Vaughan (Somerset)
India have also named their squad which includes 14-year old IPL sensation, Viabhav Suryavanshi, who has already made a big impression during the tour, smashing a 78-ball 143 during the one-day series at Worcester.
India U19s Men Youth Test squad:
Ayush Mhatre (captain)
Vaibhav Suryavanshi
Vihaan Malhotra
Maulyarajsinh Chavda
Rahul Kumar
Abhigyan Kundu (Vice-Captain & WK)
Harvansh Singh (WK)
R S Ambrish
Kanishk Chouhan
Khilan Patel
Henil Patel
Yudhajit Guha
Pranav Raghavendra
Mohammed Enaan
Aditya Rana
Anmoljeet Singh
Tickets
Tickets are now on sale for all four days of the match via the Essex Cricket website. Don't forget, the game is FREE to attend for all Essex Cricket 2025 Members. Simply show your Membership Card to gain entry.
Members: Free
Adults: £10
Student/Young Adults (18-25): £10
Junior (U18): £3
Hospitality
Hospitality is also available for the first three scheduled days of the match, starting from £54 per person and includes your match ticket.
Head to the Seat Unique website to book your hospitality by clicking the button below or alternatively, please call Julie Ager on 01245 254063.
Essex Cricket can reveal the shortlist for June's Player of the Month, for both the Men's and Women's teams.
June has seen fourteen T20 matches and the return of the County Championship matches. There have been big scores from both our Men and Women's sides. Centuries, half-centuries, incredible wicket-hauls, and debuts June has had it all!
Now it's over to you. We've narrowed down the choice for the Players of the Month, you now have the hard job of deciding who takes the top spot. Let us know by scrolling down and choosing your favourites for the wefinanceanycar.com Men's award and the Tiptree Women's award.
The winning players will be announced at one of the remaining Vitality Blast men or women's games in the 2025 season at the Ambassador Cruise Line Ground and two lucky entrants will win a pair of tickets to one of these matches. In addition, each winner will either win a Tiptree hamper or a Rothesay County Championship shirt signed by the men’s First Team squad.
Vote before midday Sunday 13 July to be in with a chance of being one of our two lucky winners!
What a month Allison has had. One of our highlights this month is Allison making his second career century against Hampshire (101). He’s also contributed brilliantly in the field, helping take wickets and stopping the opposition getting boundaries.
Opener Elgar has proven his skill with the bat this month, totalling 374 runs across both the Vitality Blast and County Championship. The team’s top scorer for June picked up three half centuries against Somerset (50), Kent (50) and Yorkshire (94). His dominant display against Yorkshire in lead to 11 boundaries in just one innings.
317 runs for Pepper this month. Making up these figures include a half century (60 v Glamorgan) and century (140 v Hampshire). The wicket-keeper has played his part in taking wickets too. Thirteen catches made by Pepper across the month, five of these coming from the T20 against Yorkshire at the start of the month.
Captain Westley never fails to impress in Championship cricket. His dominant batting displays have been crucial in our tough fought matches. Westley has led the team in the bat with two centuries in two games (130* v Hampshire and 107 v Yorkshire). His partnership with Pepper of 215 contributed to the team getting those all-important points against Hampshire.
What a month MacGregor has had! Sixteen wickets taken by the right-arm medium bowler in the Vitality Blast. MacGregor’s pinpoint accurate bowling has allowed for her teammates to make 11 wicket taking catches. On top of this, MacGregor excelled in the match against Somerset where she took 4-8 (3.2 overs) in front of her home crowd.
Maddie Penna has been a key player in making up the runs this month. Just missing out on her first Vitality Blast T20 half-century. Averaging over 1 wicket involvement a game, Penna has helped her team take those all-important wickets. Whether it’s making catches or going for the run out, Penna leaves it all out on the pitch.
Scrivens has consistently been an entertaining watch this month. Five wicket involvements for the captain through her brilliant right-arm off-spin bowling and breath-taking catches. With the bat Scrivens has averaged at 20 runs a game and had a consistently high strike rate. Scrivens is also no stranger to hitting boundaries, this month she totalled 23 fours.
Winfield-Hill has been nominated for her batting performances in June. Lauren has made a total 176 runs with a high score this month of 42 (v Somerset). Making up this total, were 30 boundaries. In the field, the wicket-keeper has contributed by making key catches from behind the stumps.
The full terms and conditions for the competition can be found here.
Somerset Men: Tom Banton, Will Smeed, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Tom Abell, Sean Dickson, Lewis Gregory, Ben Green, Lewis Goldsworthy, Craig Overton, Matt Henry, Riley Meridith
Essex Men: Michael Pepper, Paul Walter, Jordan Cox (wk), Matt Critchley, Luc Benkenstein, Charlie Allison, Matt Critchley, Noah Thain, Simon Harmer (c), Mohammad Amir, Charlie Bennett
Umpires: Jack Shantry & Paul Baldwin
Match Referee: Wayne Noon
Toss: Essex Men won the toss and elected to bowl
Result: Somerset Men win by 95 wickets
Essex’s hopes of back-to-back Vitality Blast wins were dealt a blow as they fell to a 95-run defeat against table-topping Somerset at the Cooper Associates Ground, despite a spirited effort from young all-rounder Noah Thain.
After winning the toss under the Taunton floodlights, Essex initially struck early through Mohammad Amir, who removed Tom Banton for 15 thanks to a sharp catch at mid-on. Amir was the standout performer with the ball, returning exceptional figures of 3-22 from his four overs amidst an otherwise tough night for the Essex attack.
However, Tom Kohler-Cadmore’s brutal 90 from just 39 deliveries – featuring 8 fours and 7 sixes – took the game away from the visitors. He powered Somerset to an imposing 225-6, dominating partnerships with Will Smeed (32) and Tom Abell (20), as Essex struggled to contain the flow of runs. Despite efforts to change the momentum with spin, including overs from Matt Critchley and Luc Benkenstein, Somerset’s batters found the boundary with regularity. Critchley and Simon Harmer did take wickets, but Somerset’s middle and lower order, including Sean Dickson (28* off 17), added valuable late runs.
The chase required an explosive start, and Paul Walter obliged with 24 from 12 balls, taking 15 from Craig Overton’s opening over. However, wickets fell in a flurry as the Somerset seam attack took hold. Riley Meredith bowled Michael Pepper with a peach of a delivery, before Matt Henry – playing his final game before departing for international duty – removed both Walter and Benkenstein in quick succession. Essex were 48-5 inside the powerplay.
Jordan Cox and Charlie Allison also fell during that collapse, while Critchley was run out attempting a quick single, and Robin Das holed out in the deep to leave Essex reeling at 81-7.
There was late resistance from 19-year-old Noah Thain, who played with maturity beyond his years. The England U19 prospect struck four sixes in an eye-catching 38 off just 17 balls, briefly igniting hopes of a recovery. But his dismissal – caught at long-on off Overton – brought Essex’s innings to a close at 130 in 14.1 overs.
The England Men under 19s are playing in a four day Test match at the Ambassador Cruise Line Ground this summer!
They will face India Men under 19s, including 14-year old IPL superstar Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who became the youngest player bought in an IPL auction after being selected by Rajasthan Royals. He is also the youngest player to score a century in IPL history!
Day one will begin on July 20 with the final day concluding on July 23.
Tickets are still available via our Ticket Site, so have a browse and get yourself down to CM2 to watch the next generation of international cricketers.
Somerset Women: Bex Odgers, Niamh Holland (c), Ruby Davis, Fran Wilson, Jess Hazell (wk), Alex Griffiths, Amanda-Jade Wellington, Chloe Skelton, Mollie Robbins, Olivia Barnes, Erin Vukusic.
Essex Women: Lauren Winfield-Hill (wk), Grace Scrivens (C), Cordelia Griffith, Jodi Grewcock, Maddie Penna, Jo Gardner, Eva Gray, Sophia Smale, Kate Coppack, Esmae MacGregor, Abtaha Maqsood.
Umpires: Ben Peverall & Rose Dovey
Match Referee: Wayne Noon
Toss: Somerset Women win the toss and elected to bowl
Result: Somerset win by 4 wickets
Amanda-Jade Wellington played a match-winning innings under pressure as Somerset beat Essex by four wickets at Taunton's Cooper Associates Ground to register their first win of the Vitality Blast T20 campaign in their tenth game.
The Australian international raised 29 from 23 balls, struck 4 fours and shared in a crucial stand of 45 off 29 balls for the fourth wicket with Fran Wilson, who contributed 41, as the home side chased down a victory target of 156 with three balls to spare.
Esmae MacGregor claimed 3-19 to keep Essex in the hunt, but Wellington and Alex Griffiths, required to score 16 runs off the final 17 balls, held their nerve to carry the Cider county to their first win of the season at headquarters.
Returning from England A duty, Jodi Grewcock top-scored with 45 from 34 balls and shared in a stand of 58 for the third wicket with Cordelia Griffith, who contributed 31, as Essex posted 155-5 after being put into bat. The pick of the Somerset bowlers, Wellington returned figures of 1-25 from four overs.
Deputising for the injured Sophie Luff, stand-in Somerset captain Niamh Holland won the toss, inserted the opposition and watched her bowlers reduce the visitors to 30-2 in 4.1 overs. Lauren Winfield-Hill plundered three boundaries in moving effortlessly to 19 from 14 balls, only to be cut down in her pomp by an Olivia Barnes delivery that pinned her in the crease. Three balls later, fellow opener Grace Scrivens followed the former England batter back to the pavilion after pulling a shortish ball from Erin Vukusic to mid-wicket for six.
Charged with the task of repairing the damage, Griffith and Grewcock advanced the score to 40-2 at the end of the powerplay and 66-2 at the halfway stage, despite finding boundaries hard to come by. The 50 partnership occupied 45 balls and Griffith, having raised 31 from 29 balls, was beginning to accelerate when she attempted to pull Mollie Robbins to the deep mid-wicket boundary and succeeded only in finding Alex Griffiths with the score 88-3.
That was the cue for Grewcock to take centre stage, the England A batter opening her shoulders to harvest three successive fours in an over from Barnes as the fielding side came under real pressure for the first time. Grewcock had made 45 from 34 balls and was eyeing a half century when she gave the charge to Amanda-Jade Wellington's leg spin and holed out to Vukusic at long-on.
Essex were 115-4 in the 16th over with work still to do as Jo Gardner joined Maddie Penna in the middle. These two staged a useful stand of 40 from 27 balls, Australian Penna scoring 21 at a run a ball and the forthright Gardner 22 from 12 deliveries, to hoist Essex to a competitive total.
Somerset required the reassurance of a good start and Bex Odgers and Holland provided exactly that, adding 41 in five overs before the former blotted her copybook and top-edged to short third man for 20 off the bowling of Eva Gray. Holland had also scored 20 when she surrendered her wicket in similar fashion next over, skying a catch behind off Esmae MacGregor as the home side slipped to 41-2.
Buoyed by her half century against Hampshire last time out, Fran Wilson hit the ground running as Somerset passed 50 in the seventh, while debutant Ruby Davis calmed any nerves by straight-hitting Gray for four as the third wicket partnership began to profit.
These two added 46 in 36 balls and were threatening to take the contest by the scruff of the neck when Davis, having raised 19 from 16 balls, attempted to reverse sweep MacGregor and was adjudged lbw with the score 87-3 in the 12th.
Wellington drove Grewcock down the ground and pulled Smale for four to serve notice of her intentions, but Abtaha Maqsood and MacGregor kept things tight to push the asking rate above eight. Somerset's fourth wicket pair took 15 off the 15th, bowled by Smale, at which point they required 35 off the last five.
Victory looked to be a formality, only for Wilson to dance down the wicket and lose off stump to MacGregor with 24 needed off 22 balls. Wellington then hit Scrivens to long-on in the final over, but Griffiths and Chloe Skelton saw the job through.
The England Men under 19s are playing in a four day Test match at the Ambassador Cruise Line Ground this summer!
They will face India Men under 19s, including 14-year old IPL superstar Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who became the youngest player bought in an IPL auction after being selected by Rajasthan Royals. He is also the youngest player to score a century in IPL history!
Day one will begin on July 20 with the final day concluding on July 23.
Tickets are still available via our Ticket Site, so have a browse and get yourself down to CM2 to watch the next generation of international cricketers.
Essex Men secured their first and long awaited win in this season's Vitality Blast campaign, against a star studded Surrey side at the Kia Oval.
On Sunday, the Essex fans were treated to a superb all-round performance from the Eagles as Chris Silverwood's squad enlisted their first victory since April.
Paul Walter powered Essex to their first Vitality Blast victory of the season in dramatic style, as the Eagles edged Surrey in a rain-reduced, final-ball thriller at the Kia Oval.
In a contest shortened to 12 overs per side after heavy rain, Walter blazed a brilliant 55 from just 26 balls, sharing a rapid 64-run opening stand with Michael Pepper (36 off 15) as Essex chased down Surrey’s 141 for six to win by four wickets off the final delivery.
After nine previous South Group matches without a win, Essex were determined to make a statement—and did so in style.
Walter and Pepper tore into the powerplay, taking 50 from the first three overs to lay the perfect platform. Pepper cleared the ropes and found gaps before falling to former Essex spinner Adam Zampa, who threatened to turn the game with a sharp spell of 3 for 14.
Walter continued the charge with a flurry of boundaries, including back-to-back fours off Chris Jordan, before he was caught behind off Sam Curran with 18 still needed.
Charlie Allison and Simon Harmer chipped in, but both fell late, leaving Matt Critchley to calmly carve the final ball to the boundary and seal a memorable win.
Director of Cricket Chris Silverwood has selected a 13-player squad to travel down to Taunton for the clash on Tuesday.
Rookies Mackenzie Jones and Charlie Bennett remain in the squad as Sam Cook misses out due to his selection with the England Men's Test team.
Captain: Lewis Gregory
Overseas Players: Riley Meredith (Australia, full competition), Matt Henry (New Zealand, first 11 group matches)
Finals Day Appearances: Ten (2005, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2018, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024)
Titles: Two (2005, 2023)
2024 Finish: Runners-up
2024 Leading Run-Scorer: Tom Banton (515)
2024 Leading Wicket-Taker: Ben Green (21)
Somerset squad: Lewis Gregory (c), Tom Banton (wk), Will Smeed, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Tom Lammonby, Tom Abell, Sean Dickson, Ben Green, Craig Overton, Lewis Goldsworthy, Matt Henry, Riley Meredith, Jake Ball.
Will Smeed made top scored as the 2024 runners-up Somerset Men defeated Essex Men in the first Vitality Blast match of the season at the Ambassador Cruise Line Ground.
T20 powerhouse Smeed whacked 81 in 54 balls to canter to an eight-wicket victory, as the outfit from Taunton chased 148 with 25 balls to spare.
Tom Lammonby also chipped in with 36, in a 96-run opening stand, as Somerset’s men avenged the defeat their club-mates suffered in the Women’s Vitality Blast earlier in the day.
Matt Critchley and Dean Elgar scored half-centuries in what were slight positives in the defeat to Somerset following the loss in the opener at Hampshire by 106 runs.
Click here for Part 1 of the team-by-team preview of each of this year’s South Group contenders.
Click here for Part 2 of the team-by-team preview of each of this year’s South Group contenders.
Tickets are still available for Tuesday's double header clash at the Cooper Associates County Ground but must be purchased in advance. If you can't make the journey to Taunton, the match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports for you to watch.
Alternatively, you can head to the Matchzone for a video scorecard, stats and clips of the action.
The England Men under 19s are playing in a four day Test match at the Ambassador Cruise Line Ground this summer!
They will face India Men under 19s, including 14-year old IPL superstar Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who became the youngest player bought in an IPL auction after being selected by Rajasthan Royals. He is also the youngest player to score a century in IPL history!
Day one will begin on July 20 with the final day concluding on July 23.
Tickets are still available via our Ticket Site, so have a browse and get yourself down to CM2 to watch the next generation of international cricketers.
Essex Women head down to Taunton on Tuesday to face Somerset Women in part one of a double header at the Cooper Associates County Ground between the two clubs.
Following an entertaining tie against Surrey Women at the Oval on Sunday, Essex Women face Somerset Women live on Sky Sports in a double header between Somerset and Essex.
Essex were denied a dramatic Vitality Blast win against Surrey as their rain-shortened match ended in a thrilling tie at the Kia Oval.
Chasing a revised target of 94 from 10 overs, Lauren Winfield-Hill led Essex with 49 off 27 balls and the match went down to the wire - needing two runs to win off the final ball but Jo Gardner was run out attempting a second run.
Early in the hosts' innings, Essex reduced Surrey to 45 for 4, with standout bowling from Eva Gray (2 for 18).
However, Surrey's Phoebe Franklin (48*) and Kira Chathli (44*) counterattacked with a 72-run stand, lifting the total to 159 for 5.
After a rain delay, Essex batted aggressively toward the revised target but fell just short, tying the game. Despite the result, Essex Women delivered a strong all-round performance.
Head Coach Andy Tennant has named a 13-player squad for the match against Somerset Women.
Captain Grace Scrivens and Jodi Grewcock return to the squad following their involvement with the England A Women's squad. The pair will meet up with the Eagles in Taunton following the England A T20 match at Beckenham against New Zealand A on Monday.
Flo Miller and Sophie Munro continue to recover from injuries and are beginning to complete in light training sessions.
Captain: Sophie Luff
Overseas Player/s: Amanda-Jade Wellington (Australia, full competition)
Key Moves: Seam bowlers Laura Jackson and Ellie Anderson have been recruited to provide a cutting edge with the new ball, while England international spinning all-rounder Charlie Dean was brought in to add star quality. Perhaps more significantly, the services of Australian leg spinner Amanda-Jade Wellington, a proven match-winner at this level, were secured for a second season.
The Big Question: Although competitive for the most part in their previous guise as Western Storm, a relatively inexperienced side tended to come up just short in close matches. Can this revamped Somerset squad improve on that record and demonstrate the knowhow needed to challenge for the latter stages?
Wildcard Watch: Alex Griffiths. Thrust into the role vacated by the injured Dani Gibson, the talented Welsh all-rounder is ready to realise her full potential. Adept at bowling seam up under pressure during the death overs, she now possesses the range of shots and confidence required to be an effective finisher with the bat.
Final Thought A series of shrewd signings and the availability of their international players has transformed erstwhile strugglers into more consistent performers in the Metro Bank One-Day Cup this season. Confidence and momentum gained from a series of impressive victories in the 50-over competition can now be harnessed to render Somerset competitive in the short format. As ever, much will depend on the form of overseas star Amanda-Jade Wellington and the availability of England pair Heather Knight and Charlie Dean.
Tickets are still available for Tuesday's double header clash at the Cooper Associates County Ground but must be purchased in advance. If you can't make the journey to Taunton, the match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports for you to watch.
Alternatively, you can head to the Matchzone for a video scorecard, stats and clips of the action.
The England Men under 19s are playing in a four day Test match at the Ambassador Cruise Line Ground this summer!
They will face India Men under 19s, including 14-year old IPL superstar Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who became the youngest player bought in an IPL auction after being selected by Rajasthan Royals. He is also the youngest player to score a century in IPL history!
Day one will begin on July 20 with the final day concluding on July 23.
Tickets are still available via our Ticket Site, so have a browse and get yourself down to CM2 to watch the next generation of international cricketers.
Surrey Men: Will Jacks, Dom Sibley, Jason Roy, Sam Curran (c), Laurie Evans (wk), Jamie Overton, Tom Curran, Chris Jordan, Mitchell Santner, Reece Topley, Adam Zampa.
Essex Men: Michael Pepper, Dean Elgar, Jordan Cox (wk), Paul Walter, Luc Benkenstein, Charlie Allison, Matt Critchley, Noah Thain, Simon Harmer (c), Shane Snater, Mohammad Amir.
Umpires: Mark Newell & Nigel Llong
Match Referee: Peter Such
Toss: Essex Men won the toss and elected to bowl
Result: Essex Men win by 4 wickets
Scorecard: View Here
Paul Walter powered Essex to their first Vitality Blast victory of the season in dramatic style, as the Eagles edged Surrey in a rain-reduced, final-ball thriller at the Kia Oval.
In a contest shortened to 12 overs per side after heavy rain, Walter blazed a brilliant 55 from just 26 balls, sharing a rapid 64-run opening stand with Michael Pepper (36 off 15) as Essex chased down Surrey’s 141 for six to win by four wickets off the final delivery.
After nine previous South Group matches without a win, Essex were determined to make a statement—and did so in style. Walter and Pepper tore into the powerplay, taking 50 from the first three overs to lay the perfect platform. Pepper cleared the ropes and found gaps before falling to former Essex spinner Adam Zampa, who threatened to turn the game with a sharp spell of 3 for 14.
Walter continued the charge with a flurry of boundaries, including back-to-back fours off Chris Jordan, before he was caught behind off Sam Curran with 18 still needed. Charlie Allison and Simon Harmer chipped in, but both fell late, leaving Matt Critchley to calmly carve the final ball to the boundary and seal a memorable win.
Earlier, Essex made early inroads after being asked to bowl, with Luc Benkenstein and Walter picking up key wickets inside the powerplay. Michael Pepper held a superb diving catch to remove Dom Sibley, while Will Jacks and Sam Curran both fell trying to accelerate.
Jason Roy’s 30 off 17 and a quickfire 27* from Tom Curran lifted Surrey to 141, but Essex’s bowlers—led by Mohammad Amir’s death-over control—kept the target within reach.
With the bat, Essex delivered a fearless chase under pressure, breaking their winless streak in thrilling fashion and showing the kind of intent that will give them confidence heading into the final stages of the group campaign.
The England Men under 19s are playing in a four day Test match at the Ambassador Cruise Line Ground this summer!
They will face India Men under 19s, including 14-year old IPL superstar Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who became the youngest player bought in an IPL auction after being selected by Rajasthan Royals. He is also the youngest player to score a century in IPL history!
Day one will begin on July 20 with the final day concluding on July 23.
Tickets are still available via our Ticket Site, so have a browse and get yourself down to CM2 to watch the next generation of international cricketers.
