Best yet reckons Lammonby after taking ton off Essex

Tom Lammonby - best yet

TOM Lammonby reckons his Bob Willis Trophy final century was the best of his hat-trick.

The former Devon and Exeter opening batsman struck 116 to reach his third hundred in his last three first-class matches – having only made his debut last month.

The 20-year-old had to negotiate the likes of Jamie Porter, Simon Harmer and Sam Cook – all two-time County Champions.

And the strength of the Essex attack makes Lammonby rate his latest effort as his greatest so far.

“I think that has to be the best attack I have faced,” Lammonby said. “The names there are all high-quality bowlers.

“It is always nice to score a few runs and contribute to the team against the best opposition.

“I am pleased with that but there is still a big last day to go to make sure we win the game.”

Lammonby made his Somerset debut in the Vitality Blast last season before being forced to wait through lockdown to make his bow in the red ball format.

His fast-track to success has shocked even himself.

Lammonby said: “It wasn’t a season where I was worried about contributing or trying to get into the first team. The way I looked at it was I hoped to get an opportunity and take it.

“I didn’t think I would be opening the batting, I thought I would be slotting into the middle order somewhere.

“But any opportunity at the start of the year would be one I would have taken with open arms so I am very grateful to play for Somerset.”