Kohler-Cadmore, Henry Star as Somerset Outclass Sussex to Stay Unbeaten Somerset continued their perfect start to the 2025 Vitality Blast, handing Sussex Sharks their first defeat with a comprehensive seven-wicket victory at Hove. Put in to bat, Sussex posted 166 for 8, a total that looked sub-par thanks to tight bowling spells from Somerset’s attack, particularly Matt Henry, who claimed 3 for 29. In response, Tom Kohler-Cadmore led a dominant chase with a fluent 64 off 38 balls, sharing a blistering 89-run stand with Tom Lammonby (35) to set the platform. Somerset cruised home with 12 balls to spare, improving their record to 3 wins from 3 matches. Despite their form, this marked just Somerset’s third T20 win at Hove, historically a tough venue for them. Somerset’s Bowlers Set the Tone The visitors applied the pressure early, reducing Sussex to 36 for 3 in the powerplay. Henry struck twice in the first six overs, including a sharp catch to remove James Coles, while Dan Hughes and Harrison Ward also fell cheaply. Sussex skipper John Simpson was the standout for the hosts, hitting a battling 58 from 41 balls, including six fours and two sixes. He rebuilt alongside Tom Alsop (23) in a 63-run stand, but Somerset struck back decisively when Henry returned to dismiss Alsop and trigger a collapse of 4 for 26 in the final five overs. Sussex were restricted in both powerplay (36/3) and death overs, largely due to Somerset’s precise pace attack. Somerset’s Chase – Calm and Clinical The run chase started poorly as Will Smeed fell in the first over. But Kohler-Cadmore and Lammonby counterattacked ruthlessly, with boundaries flowing freely through the powerplay. Kohler-Cadmore notched his 42nd T20 half-century off 30 balls, peppering the leg side with powerful strokes. Lammonby’s useful 35 kept the momentum going before Tom Abell (36* off 22) guided the side home with composed finishing. The result confirms Somerset’s status as early South Group favourites, building on last season’s strong campaign as 2024 runners-up. Match Summary: 🟢 Somerset (167/3 in 18 overs) beat Sussex (166/8) by 7 wickets 🏏 Top Performers: Tom Kohler-Cadmore – 64 (38) John Simpson – 58 (41) Matt Henry – 3/29 Tom Abell – 36* (22)