Sussex are cup kings

But one of their heroes, West Indian all-rounder Dwayne Smith, is almost certain to be unavailable to play for them in the tournament in India in October.

Smith hammered 59 off only 26 deliveries with seven fours and three sixes to help Sussex reach 172 for seven after being put into bat. Somerset never seriously threatened to achieve the highest ever score to win a domestic Twenty20 final once Marcus Trescothick had been dismissed for a whirlwind 33.

Smith played for Deccan Chargers in the Indian Premier League, who have also qualified, and they have first call on his services.

Luke Wright (20) and Rory Hamilton Brown (25) provided useful contributions to keep the Sharks' score ticking over but it was Smith who provided the fireworks and he collected all 18 runs in an over from Ben Phillips. His innings ended in bizarre fashion when he attempted to reverse sweep spinner Max Waller and was stumped by Craig Kieswetter down the leg side.

Sussex were then 122 for five but Chris Nash (28) and Yasir Arafat (20 not out) added 46 to set a competitive total.

Somerset needed a flying start if they were to achieve the highest total to win a domestic Twenty20 final - and they were given it - as in the semi-final win over Kent - by Marcus Trescothick. He made 33 off only 15 deliveries with three sixes and three fours before going for one big hit too many and slicing James Kirtley to Hamilton-Brown at deep cover.

And his county skipper and opening partner Justin Langer (15) quickly followed him back to the pavilion when he swung across the line at Yasir Arafat and was bowled.

James Hildreth made only a single before he went for a big hit against spinner Will Beer and provided a steepling catch to Hamilton-Brown, running in from long-on. Beer claimed a second success when Kieswetter, who also made just one, was stumped as the Sabres started to crumble.

The last six wickets then fell for a meagre five runs in the space of 19 deliveries.