12 Jul, 2025 | 02:49 PM
A remarkable century from Dan Lawrence propelled Surrey to a thrilling six-wicket victory over Glamorgan at the Kia Oval, putting them in a strong position to secure a Vitality Blast knockout spot.
Chasing an imposing target of 223, Surrey found themselves in deep trouble at 16 for 3, but Lawrence’s 120 not out off just 54 balls turned the match on its head. The right-hander, known for his wristy strokeplay, shared an unbroken stand of 146 from 60 balls with Tom Curran (49* from 27) to guide Surrey home with five balls to spare, and ensure they edged closer to qualifying for the knockout stages.
Glamorgan, batting first, had looked poised to secure their first-ever Blast win over Surrey in eight attempts, after a powerful partnership between Colin Ingram (69 from 33 balls) and Asa Tribe (56* from 30 balls) lifted them to 222 for 6.
Ingram’s knock was particularly crucial, as he accelerated through the middle overs to raise his half-century off just 25 balls. He was supported by Tribe, who matched his tempo, pulling Surrey’s bowlers to all parts of the ground. Their partnership of 105 from 51 balls for the fifth wicket was a standout feature of Glamorgan's innings.
However, a late flurry from Tribe and Ingram proved insufficient as they were unable to defend the challenging total once Surrey began their chase.
Surrey’s chase got off to a nightmare start. After losing Jason Roy early, who was dismissed in spectacular fashion by Dan Douthwaite's leaping catch at cover, and then Sam Curran shortly after, they were 3 for 16 and in danger of collapse.
But Lawrence, alongside Will Jacks, began the rebuild. The pair counter-attacked with a quick partnership of 62 from 33 balls, including several boundaries off Imad Wasim, before Jacks was run out after a sharp throw from Kiran Carlson at mid-off.
With the required rate climbing above 11 runs per over, the match seemed to be slipping from Surrey’s grasp. But Lawrence, in full flow, continued to play with confidence, smashing Andy Gorvin for a massive leg-side six to bring up his half-century.
At the other end, Curran played the perfect supporting role. His calm 49* from 27 balls, including a crucial boundary, allowed Lawrence to dominate as he struck boundary after boundary. The pair added 146 runs in just 60 balls to bring Surrey back into the contest.
When Lawrence brought up his maiden T20 century off 46 balls, the crowd erupted in applause. The milestone, which included 10 fours and 6 sixes, was the perfect reward for his resilience after his side's early collapse.
With the target well within reach, Lawrence sealed the win in style, hitting Gorvin for a straight six to bring Surrey to 224/4 and claim victory by 6 wickets.
Despite the defeat, Glamorgan had their moments of brilliance. Early on, Will Smale (37 from 17) gave them a fast start, and Douthwaite (2 for 31) bowled a crucial tight spell. However, their efforts with the ball weren’t enough to stem the tide once Lawrence and Curran found their groove.
Surrey’s win marked a stunning turnaround and highlighted the destructive potential of Lawrence, who was the game-changer after his side's early struggles. The victory takes Surrey a step closer to securing their place in the Vitality Blast knockout stages as they continue their strong campaign.
