Somerset Cricket Club: Match drawn between President’s XI and Vice-president’s XI

Somerset’s Cup Match selection committee left the final Cup Match trial with a major headache as Dion Stovell incurred what appeared a significant injury to a finger on his right hand.

Stovell was injured in the midst of his third over while fielding a return drive from Jahnoi Bean, with the all-rounder immediately leaving the field for treatment on a suspected dislocated finger.

However, while the injury is not ideal this close to the Annual Classic, it is not believed to be serious enough to keep Stovell, who has scored centuries in the last two Cup Matches, out of the big game in just five days’ time.

Other than the intrigue surrounding a key member of the side, the occasion underwhelmed in its delivery of entertainment as well as providing significant clarity as to what changes might be considered to the champions’ team.

Despite the uncertainty now surrounding Stovell, selectors were provided with more questions than answers as most of those considered automatic selection or potential colts offered performances easy to forget.

Alex Dore’s chances of securing a spot ahead of Chris Douglas at the top of the batting order was hurt when he was dismissed by Sheldon Caesar for just seven.

Two other youngsters believed on the cusp of the side, Dominic Sabir and Jermal Proctor, were only mildly productive, with the latter toiling admirably for his two wickets before notching an unbeaten 22.

Perhaps the surprise star of the day was Sharye Tavares, who many thought more likely to play in the Colts Cup Match on Sunday. Tavares grabbed four wickets and appeared hard done by when adjudged run out for 24, with camera stills appearing to favour the batter.

Veteran all-rounder Kamau Leverock top scored in the contest, showing uncommon patience in his 71 and a fine ability to adapt to the demands of red-ball cricket.

Wicketkeeper-batter Jahnoi Bean flashed his potential with a stylish 43 not out for the Vice-President’s XI, exhibiting an encouraging display of pulls, drives, dab and leg-side glances that drew praise from the crowd.