Somerset’s plans to defend their T20 Blast title have been hampered as Riley Meredith, selected for Australia’s white-ball tour of Pakistan and Bangladesh, will miss the team’s first six South Group matches. Meredith, a key figure in Somerset’s previous championship, led the wicket-taking charts in the 2025 Blast with 28 scalps. His absence will be felt during critical fixtures against Hampshire, Warwickshire, Glamorgan, and Gloucestershire.
Somerset’s director of cricket, Andy Hurry, acknowledged the challenge posed by Meredith’s international duty but expressed support for his commitment to Australia. The fast bowler is anticipated to rejoin Somerset for a match against Gloucestershire on June 26. The Australia tour includes three ODIs in Pakistan and three T20Is in Bangladesh, keeping players away from the Blast for over two weeks at the tournament’s outset.
Apart from Meredith, Gloucestershire will also miss all-rounder Liam Scott due to Australia’s squad selection. Scott, signed for the Blast and two County Championship games, will be absent for Gloucestershire’s initial T20 matches and a Championship fixture. The 25-year-old is expected to return for Gloucestershire’s County Championship game against Worcestershire on June 19.
