IN-FORM spinner Max Waller has insisted Somerset have the talent to go all the way in this year’s NatWest T20 Blast.

Having taken 11 wickets at a shade above 20 in the tournament so far, Waller has played a key part in a revival which sees Somerset go into tomorrow night’s derby at Gloucestershire with a realistic chance of reaching the knockout stages.

Speaking to the County Gazette ahead of that match, he said: “Anyone can beat anyone in T20 and we’re building nicely – Finals Day is where we’re aspiring to get to and I think we can win the competition.

“We are playing with much more confidence and freedom than last year – you can get on a roll in this format and our momentum is growing.”

The 29-year-old bowled the pivotal over in Sunday’s victory over Sussex, finishing with 2-13 in soggy conditions that have become par for the course.

“The ball has been like a bar of soap for the past three games,” Waller said

“It’s been tough but you’ve got to get on with it.

“It actually sometimes helps me a bit, as the ball skids on a bit more when the wickets are damp and it can be harder to play spin when it skids on.”

The spinner has fond memories of Bristol already this season, having taken 3-37 in May’s One-Day Cup victory, and is eagerly awaiting the chance to renew hostilities with Somerset’s traditional rivals.

“I love playing in front of big crowds,” he said.

“Bristol can be pretty hostile when it’s sold out, but it’s a big game and I’m really looking forward to it – it’s been a good place to bowl spin over the years so hopefully that continues.”

Friday’s derby could also be the perfect place for another exuberant Waller celebration, some of which have captured the attention of supporters on social media this season.

“Ultimately, T20 is an entertainment business so you’ve got a license to entertain,” he said.

“The celebrations won’t please everyone, but I try and make it as fun as possible and it’s important to celebrate wickets hard, so I’ll have to get something planned for Friday!”

Waller, who would not be drawn into a discussion on his future, has become something of a limited overs specialist in recent years having not played a First Class game since 2012.

Despite sparse opportunities of late, the spinner is holding out hope for a chance to impress with the red ball.

“I absolutely still aspire to play First Class cricket,” he said.

“I would love to bowl on the spinning wickets we have here now, but Bessy [Dom Bess] and Leachy [Jack Leach] have done really well and Roelof [van der Merwe] is a fantastic player so it has proved difficult to get an opportunity.

“I’ll keep working hard and see where it takes me.”