Northamptonshire Clinch 17 runs Win in a Thriller
Northamptonshire have won by 17 runs. Northamptonshire batted first and posted 143/10 in 19.2 overs. Somerset, chasing 144, fell short at 126/9 in 20 overs.
Northamptonshire struggled through their innings, losing wickets at regular intervals. Chris Lynn top-scored with 39 off 26 balls (SR 150), but lacked support from the other end. The powerplay yielded 39 runs — early wickets put them under pressure from the start.
Will Smeed fought hard with 49 off 35 balls, but it was not enough to haul Somerset over the line. The required rate climbed too steeply in the end.
With the ball, Jake Ball delivered figures of 4/17 in 4 overs (Econ 4.3). A match-defining spell that tore through the batting order.
SOM lead the series 73-7. The pressure is firmly on the chasing side now.
The Turning Point
Over 11 of the first innings was the inflection point — 16 runs came off it, shifting the momentum and setting the stage for a total that ultimately proved too much.
Key Performers
49 off 35 balls (SR 140), 5 fours, 2 sixes
4/17 in 4 overs (Econ: 4.25)
39 off 26 balls (SR 150), 3 fours, 3 sixes
Verdict
Northamptonshire showed composure when it mattered most and deserve this victory. Somerset will rue missed opportunities — a 17 runs deficit could have been avoided with sharper execution in the key moments. SOM lead the series 73-7. The pressure is firmly on the chasing side now.