Surrey Edge Kent in Tense Vitality Blast Finish

Surrey Edge Kent in Tense Vitality Blast Finish

Surrey's resilience shone through in a thrilling Vitality Blast encounter at the Kia Oval, where they edged out Kent Spitfires by a narrow five-run margin under the Duckworth/Lewis method.

Despite a delayed start due to rain, Surrey managed to post a competitive 103 for 5 in their allotted 10 overs. Laurie Evans led the charge with a brisk 25, while Dom Sibley and Reece Jordan contributed valuable sixes.

Kent's chase got off to a shaky start as Daniel Bell-Drummond departed early. However, Feroze Khushi (35) and Sam Billings (14*) kept their hopes alive with some late hitting.

The match reached a pivotal point in the penultimate over when Khushi was dismissed by Cameron Steel. Kent needed 17 runs from the final over, but Surrey's captain Chris Jordan held his nerve and restricted them to 81 for 3.

Surrey's innings also featured a dramatic twist in the final over. Grant Stewart's no-ball full toss allowed Ben Geddes to smash a six, adding 19 runs to their total.

Key moments in the match included Cameron Steel's economical fourth over, which stifled Kent's momentum, and Jordan's accurate bowling under pressure in the final over.

Surrey's victory consolidates their position at the top of the South Group standings, while Kent's seventh loss in ten games leaves them struggling to qualify for the quarter-finals.

Tags: #VitalityBlast, #Surrey, #Kent, #Cricket, #T20

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