Tom Banton’s history-making knock at Taunton was the standout performance in a record-breaking match. He then scored an unbroken 344, to complete the match with the highest first-class score in Somerset’s history. It was his spectacular innings that etched his name in the record books. It wasn’t just the players they signed that were crucial to Somerset’s dominance. They rattled up 637 runs for the loss of just six wickets in their first innings.
The last hour of the match was pure theatre – it was Banton’s stage, and the world was treated to an exhibition of stunning batting. Together with James Rew, he set the highest fifth-wicket partnership in Somerset’s history. They mounted an impressive batting resistance of 371 runs spanning 86.3 overs. This remarkable achievement surpassed the old record of 320 runs made by John Francis and Ian Blackwell against Durham UCCE in 2005.
Banton’s record-breaking innings began to unfold as he gradually built his score, surpassing his previous career-high of 133 runs, which he made against Kent at Taunton just 11 months prior. His maiden double-hundred came off 241 balls, featuring an impressive tally of 33 fours, demonstrating his ability to dominate the bowling attack throughout his innings.
Yet as the day went on, Banton’s intent at the crease was clear. He completed his triple-century in style, pulling Kashif Ali to the extreme mid-wicket fence. He completed this remarkable achievement on the penultimate ball of the day. This fantastic photograph really captured his amazing artistry. It broke an 18-year endeavour record made by Justin Langer, who placed on 342 against Surrey in Guildford all the way back in 2006.
Banton has his name in the record books, having become just the eighth Somerset player to score a triple century. This achievement is especially meaningful since it’s the first time since 2009, when James Hildreth achieved the milestone, that a Somerset player has done so. His partnership with Rew, which occupied just 165 balls for their hundred stands, further exemplified their synergy and determination on the field.
The home side went on to a mammoth 637-6. This left them with a gargantuan first-innings lead of 483 runs, leaving them well-placed as the match moved into its final stages. Banton’s record-setting performance is a testament to his amazing talent. It shows the richness and breadth of talent on the Somerset team.
Leave a Reply