MAX Waller believes Somerset may be "peaking at the right time" as they look to secure qualification for the latter stages of the Vitality Blast.

Somerset are fifth in the South Group, having won their last three completed fixtures, ahead of two games in as many days against Gloucestershire (Friday, 6.30pm) and Glamorgan (Saturday, 7pm).

Waller, who has taken 10 wickets in the competition so far, said: "We had a slow start but I think we are getting better as it goes along.

"We seem to be peaking at the right time, which sounds like a cliche but is so important in this competition.

"Hopefully we can pick up some wins towards the back end, get back to finals day and go one better than last year."

Friday's game could go some way to deciding Somerset's fate, with Gloucestershire currently occupying the fourth and final qualification spot.

It will also be the first time the Westcountry pair have faced each other in this year's competition following last Friday's washout in Taunton and, on a wicket likely to suit pace off the ball, Waller's leg spin could be crucial.

"Last week was obviously frustrating but we are all really looking forward to Friday," he said.

"It is always good fun playing in front of a full house in Bristol.

"I love those sorts of occasions and if you don't enjoy them I don't think you should be playing professional sport."

The following day sees Somerset host another exciting night under lights, with Glamorgan the visitors (7pm).

"They [lights] have really added an extra dimension," Waller said.

"It means the atmosphere is better throughout the game rather than just towards the end.

"It took a bit of getting used to in the field due to how bright they are but they have been a great addition."

Waller experienced a whole new level of atmosphere earlier this year as he represented the Quetta Gladiatiors, who were victorious in the 2019 Pakistan Super League (PSL).

"That was a brilliant experience," he said.

"It was frustrating not to play and get a chance to show what I could do, but I had an opportunity out in the field.

"It was my first time playing in Pakistan and the crowds were so loud.

"They are just crazy about cricket and it was the first time in several years the tournament was being held in Pakistan, which was great for cricket over there.

"To be around those sort of players and see how they go about their cricket was really valuable."

Waller will put himself forward for more franchise tournaments this winter, as well as 'The Hundred' next year.

"Things are starting to happen quickly," Waller said of the new competition.

"All eyes will be on the draft in October and it will be an exciting tournament to be involved for whoever gets picked up due to the exposure it will bring.

"It adds an extra element to the Blast this year and next with the wildcard picks."

Waller could be one of several Somerset players to be picked up in the new competition and the spinner went on to hail the club's young guns, who have seized their opportunities in this season's Blast competition.

"Eddie Byrom has been very good since he has come in and Tom Lammonby has done his job really well," Waller said.

"Tom Banton is right up there in terms of the young players I have played with and the sky is the limit for him.

"Having so many youngsters also helps us in the field, as it means we are not carrying anyone or having to try and hide players.

"We have been brilliant as a unit in the field so far and I'm yet to see a team field better than us."

Somerset squad to face Gloucestershire: Tom Abell (c), Babar Azam, Tom Banton, George Bartlett, Dom Bess, Eddie Byrom, James Hildreth, Tim Groenewald, Tom Lammonby, Craig Overton, Ollie Sale, Jerome Taylor, Roelof van der Merwe and Max Waller.

Somerset have been linked with a move for India batsman Murali Vijay as their overseas player for the final three matches of the season.

The county are searching for a replacement for Azhar Ali, who has been recalled by Pakistan, and

ESPN Cricinfo

have reported that "a deal has been agreed between club and player".

Vijay, 35, averages 38.28 from 61 Tests and has 12 Test centuries to his name.

He also played for Essex last season, making three fifties and one hundred in his five innings at an average of 64.59.