Kennington Oval, London – Surrey secured their spot in the semifinals of the Vitality Blast 2024 with a solid 5-wicket victory over Durham in the first quarterfinal at the Kennington Oval. A match-winning performance from Player of the Match Dom Sibley, who scored a composed 67 off 48 balls, anchored Surrey’s chase as they comfortably overhauled Durham’s total of 162/8 with 12 balls to spare.
Durham’s Innings: Worrall and Topley Lead Surrey’s Bowling Effort
Durham, after being put into bat by Surrey, struggled to build partnerships, losing wickets at regular intervals. Surrey’s opening bowlers, Daniel Worrall and Reece Topley, were particularly effective, with Worrall conceding just 14 runs in his 4 overs and picking up two crucial wickets, including Durham skipper Alex Lees.
Despite a challenging start, Durham’s middle and lower order managed to push the total to a respectable 162/8, thanks in part to Michael Jones’ unbeaten 37 off 24 balls and a late flourish from Ben Raine, who smashed 23 off just 8 balls. Sam Curran and Tom Curran also chipped in with key contributions, each taking a wicket and maintaining pressure throughout the innings.
Surrey’s Chase: Sibley and Curran Shine
In reply, Surrey got off to a cautious start, losing Will Jacks and Laurie Evans early in the powerplay. However, Dom Sibley held the innings together with a well-paced knock, combining for a crucial partnership with Sam Curran, who played an aggressive innings of 52 off 34 balls. The duo added 95 runs for the fourth wicket, effectively taking the game away from Durham.
Even after Sibley’s dismissal in the 17th over, Surrey were well on their way to victory, needing just 15 runs from 19 balls. Tom Curran and Jamie Overton completed the formalities, guiding Surrey to 164/5 in 18 overs.
Key Records and Highlights
- Dom Sibley’s Anchor Role: Sibley’s 67 off 48 balls was the backbone of Surrey’s chase, ensuring they stayed ahead of the required rate throughout.
- Worrall’s Economy: Daniel Worrall’s 2/14 in 4 overs was the most economical spell of the match, applying early pressure on Durham’s top order.
- Sam Curran’s All-Round Performance: Sam Curran’s all-round contribution, with a key wicket and a quickfire half-century, was instrumental in Surrey’s win.
- Surrey’s Clinical Finish: Surrey finished the match with 12 balls to spare, highlighting their efficient chase under lights at the Kennington Oval.
Brief Scores:
Durham: 162/8 in 20 overs (Michael Jones 37*, Daniel Worrall 2/14, Reece Topley 2/20)
Surrey: 164/5 in 18 overs (Dom Sibley 67, Sam Curran 52, Brydon Carse 2/34)
Result: Surrey won by 5 wickets (with 12 balls remaining)
Player of the Match: Dom Sibley (Surrey)
Surrey’s clinical performance sees them advance to the semifinals, where they will be looking to continue their strong form and push for the Vitality Blast title. Durham, on the other hand, will reflect on a challenging match where they were unable to capitalize on their batting start.
