Somerset’s hopes of securing their first County Championship title took a hit as Lancashire finished day three in control at Old Trafford. Somerset, chasing a formidable target of 393, ended the day at 204-6, still needing 189 runs to pull off a remarkable victory.
If Somerset manages to chase down the target, they would keep their title fight with Surrey alive going into the final week. However, a defeat would not only dash their title dreams but could also see Lancashire relegated to Division Two. Lancashire’s fate also depends on Nottinghamshire’s performance, as a 10-point haul from Nottinghamshire in their final match against Warwickshire would confirm Lancashire’s drop, regardless of their results.
Luke Wells was the standout performer for Lancashire, scoring a crucial 130 in their second-innings total of 398. Lancashire added exactly 100 runs for their last three wickets, with Wells and George Balderson extending their partnership to 135 before Wells was trapped lbw by Jack Leach for 130. Leach also removed Tom Bailey for a single, and Balderson’s innings came to an end when Brett Randell bowled him for 47.
Somerset’s reply got off to a shaky start as Andy Umeed was bowled by Tom Bailey’s second delivery, having charged down the pitch and missed his shot, losing his off stump. Opener Archie Vaughan gave Somerset hope with a determined 68, forming a 105-run partnership with Tom Lammonby before Lammonby was bowled by Wells.
After tea, Somerset’s chances were further dented when George Balderson took the crucial wickets of Vaughan and Tom Kohler-Cadmore. Kasey Aldridge and James Rew attempted to steady the ship, but with just four balls remaining in the day, Luke Wells struck again, dismissing Aldridge for 19, caught by Matty Hurst.
Somerset now face an uphill battle, needing a further 189 runs to clinch victory, with only four wickets in hand.