Surrey Establish 73-Run Lead in County Championship Opener

Surrey's quest for a three-peat in the County Championship got off to a promising start as they established a 73-run lead over Somerset at the Kia Oval. Dom Sibley's first century at home since returning in 2023, along with contributions from Rory Burns, Jamie Smith, and Ben Foakes, propelled Surrey to a first-innings total of 358 for 6.

Sibley's 20th first-class century was a masterclass in patience and precision. His straight drives were a highlight, but a misjudgement almost cost him his wicket on 49. Burns, who reached his 94th fifty-plus score, provided solid support, and the opening pair looked set to match Somerset's 285 all out.

However, Surrey lost four wickets for 99 runs, including the crucial dismissals of Ollie Pope, Sibley, and Smith. Pope hooked lazily to deep backward square leg, while Sibley was run out in bizarre fashion, hitting his own boot and sending the ball onto his stumps. Smith's aggressive innings, which included two sixes, was cut short by Craig Overton's nip and bounce.

Despite their control, Surrey's scoring rate slowed down, with Shoaib Bashir's metronomic spin proving particularly effective. Bashir conceded just 31 runs in an unbroken 16-over spell, including five maidens.

Ben Foakes and Cameron Steel added 48 for the sixth wicket, with Foakes reaching his first half-century of the season. However, Gregory trapped Foakes in front, and Steel secured Surrey's third and final batting point with a boundary through cover.

Somerset's bowlers hustled throughout, with Lewis Gregory shuffling his attack and tinkering with his field. While they gave their all, the Kookaburra ball proved challenging, and they will welcome the return of the Dukes next week.

Tags: #CountyChampionship, #Surrey, #Somerset, #DomSibley, #RoryBurns