SOMERSET La La La, Somerset La La La was the song that was ringing around Edgbaston yesterday evening as the Cidermen lifted the Vitality Blast for only the second time in the history of the competition and for the first time since 2005.

After being the form team throughout the group stages Somerset arrived at Edgbaston where they were greeted by a larger contingent of their own fans than any of the other of the three counties - Surrey, Hampshire and Essex, who were there.

In the group stages Lewis Gregory’s men had lost just two of their 14 matches - at home to Surrey and away at Hampshire.

On the journey to the game it was easy to spot those who were making their way sporting Somerset colours, hoping that this might just be the year that their side broke their reputation as the perennial bridesmaids and claim the top prize.

Long time followers of Somerset reckoned that the 2023 side was probably the strongest that had ever fielded and if it was going to happen, then this was the year.

The weather forecast didn’t look very promising but the rain only really affected the first semi final match

Somerset played in the second match in which they faced Surrey who had a star studded line up that including many internationals.

Batting first the Cidermen posted what appeared a below par score of 142 for seven from their 19 overs.

At the hallway stage even the most loyal of fans reckoned that Somerset hadn’t scored enough runs and yet somehow thanks to a disciplined bowling and dynamic fielding performance they bowled Surrey out for 118 in 16.5 overs, Craig Overton, Matt Henry and Ben Green each taking three wickets.

In the final the Cidermen faced Essex who earlier in the day had beaten Hampshire in the first semi and who they had already beaten twice in the group stages.

Once again Somerset batted first and scored 145 all out of which Sean Dickson made 53, which again seemed below par.

If Lewis Gregory’s team were to achieve their dream of lifting the trophy they would have to bowl their opponents out, which is exactly what they did, dismissing Essex for 131 with nine balls to spare. Henry with four wickets and Ish Sodhi who claimed three for 22 bowled their newly adopted county to victory.

The Somerset fans were in full voice and continued their vocal tributes to their heroes until the team lifted the trophy and it was time to go home.

The journey back west was very sweet and almost in silence as Somerset fans made their ways back home tired but happy.

This was a day to enjoy and savour until the next time - whenever that might be.