Surrey set a formidable target of 253 runs, posting a mammoth 252-7 from their allotted 20 overs. The opening duo of Will Jacks and Laurie Evans set the stage ablaze with a scintillating partnership of 177 runs in just 12.4 overs.
Jacks smashed a blistering 96 off 45 balls, while Evans contributed a quickfire 85 off 37 deliveries. The Surrey openers showcased their power-hitting skills, leaving the Middlesex bowlers searching for answers.
However, Middlesex responded to the challenge with an aggressive approach in their run chase. They blazed through the powerplay, reaching 83 without any loss of wickets.
Stephen Eskinazi led the charge with a brilliant innings of 73 runs, well supported by Max Holden’s unbeaten 68. The duo’s heroics propelled Middlesex towards an astonishing victory.
With four balls to spare, Jack Davies struck the winning runs, completing an incredible comeback for Middlesex. The victory marked a significant turnaround for the team, who had previously lost all 10 matches in the campaign and endured a losing streak of 14 games dating back to the previous season.
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The match’s aggregate score of 506 runs also ranks as the third-highest in T20 history, emphasizing the batting firepower displayed by both teams. The clash between Middlesex and Surrey showcased an array of boundaries and an electrifying atmosphere, with over 20,000 spectators witnessing the spectacle south of the Thames.
Laurie Evans unleashed his batting prowess, smashing nine fours and five sixes during his explosive opening stand with Jacks. The highlight of the innings came when Jacks dispatched five consecutive sixes off Luke Hollman’s over.
Surrey seemed well on their way to surpassing Somerset’s highest T20 Blast score of 265-5 as they reached 191-2 after Jacks’ departure in the 15th over. However, their momentum was disrupted in the final six overs, as Middlesex made crucial breakthroughs to halt Surrey’s progress.
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In response, Middlesex captain Eskinazi and Joe Cracknell laid the foundation with a blistering partnership of 90 runs in just 6.2 overs. Eskinazi’s 73-run knock set the stage for Holden to take charge. The calm and composed Holden remained unbeaten on 68 off 35 balls, leading Middlesex’s charge alongside Ryan Higgins, who contributed a valuable 48 off 24 deliveries.
Despite some late hiccups, Middlesex remained determined and focused on the target. With 10 runs needed off seven deliveries, Jack Davies joined the action and ensured he retained the strike for the last over.
Davies exhibited nerves of steel as he struck a six over fine leg and followed it up with a boundary, steering Middlesex to a memorable victory at 254-3. The scenes of jubilation in the visiting dugout were a testament to the team’s incredible achievement.
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Middlesex’s remarkable run chase stands as the second-highest total in T20 history when batting second, trailing only South Africa’s 259-4 against the West Indies at Centurion in March.
The record-breaking performance will be remembered as one of the most thrilling encounters in T20 Blast history, showcasing the excitement and unpredictability of the format.