In a thrilling match of the Vitality T20 Blast 2023, Somerset secured their eighth victory with a convincing seven-wicket win over Kent. The highlight of the match was a remarkable shot played by Tom Banton, which drew comparisons to his countrymate Joe Root’s signature reverse sweep.
Chasing a target of 187 runs, Somerset comfortably reached the total in just 16.3 overs, thanks to valuable contributions from their top five batsmen. Tom Banton top-scored with 42 runs, followed by Will Smeed (36), Tom Kohler-Cadmore (28), Tom Abell (40*), and Sean Dickson (30*), who all played crucial roles in the successful run chase.
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Among the many impressive shots played during the match, Banton’s reverse swat stood out the most. In the fifth over, bowled by Paul Walter, Banton anticipated the delivery and executed a perfect reverse swat, launching the ball over backward point for a six. The audacity and precision of the shot drew immediate comparisons to Joe Root, who has become known for his frequent use of the reverse sweep in recent times.
Root’s affinity for the reverse sweep was particularly evident during the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston, where he repeatedly attempted the shot against Australia’s formidable pace attack comprising Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Scott Boland. Ever since relinquishing the captaincy and with Ben Stokes taking charge, Root has increasingly incorporated the shot into his batting repertoire.
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While Banton’s reverse swat may not have been an exact replica of Root’s, its resemblance sparked discussions and drew attention to the growing trend of players embracing unconventional shots. As players like Root and Banton continue to push the boundaries of shot selection, cricket fans can look forward to witnessing more innovative strokes on the field.
Overall, Somerset’s victory showcased their team’s strong batting depth and ability to chase challenging totals. With Banton’s standout shot adding an extra element of excitement, the match provided a thrilling spectacle for cricket enthusiasts and served as a reminder of the sport’s ever-evolving nature.
Who plays it better, @TBanton18 or Joe Root? 👀 #Blast23 pic.twitter.com/mk2Qn2nLLv
— Vitality Blast (@VitalityBlast) June 19, 2023
