SOUTH African Zander De Bruyn hit 72 in 44 balls to help Somerset Sabres record a five-wicket victory against Warwickshire Bears in the Twenty20 Cup at the County Ground last night (Wednesday).

The visitors had posted a challenging 187-5 after being asked to bat but De Bruyn led the way with his seventh half century in eight innings as Somerset reached their target with two balls left.

In cold conditions, Jonathan Trott (42 in 24 balls) and Jim Troughton (50 off 29) shared a stand of 80 for the second wicket before collapsing to 104-5.

Skipper Westwood, with an unbeaten 49, then put on 83 with Ant Botha (35 not out) to reach 187-5 – competitive total even at Taunton.

For Somerset, Charl Willoughby bowled an economical four overs for just 19 runs, while young leg spinner Max Waller picked up two wickets in two balls on his way to 2-38 from four.

After Somerset lost Craig Kieswetter (2) and Marcus Trescothick (21), De Bruyn and Hildreth (39 from 26) shared 66 to take the side to 101.

Somerset were always up with the rate and after De Bruyn had gone – his fine knock contained seven fours and two sixes – skipper Justin Langer guided them home with 29 from 21 deliveries.

It means Somerset have won their opening two games in the Midlands, Wales and West Group.

Their next two matches are all at home to Gloucestershire on Friday and Glamorgan on Monday. Both start at 5.30pm.