Bopara’s Vintage Knock Propels Northamptonshire to T20 Finals Day
Ravi Bopara, at the age of 40, delivered a stunning, match-winning century as Northamptonshire upset surrey in a thrilling Vitality Blast quarter-final clash at The Kia Oval. The victory sends Northants back to T20 Finals Day for the first time since their title-winning run in 2016.
A Rain-Shortened Showdown
The match was reduced to 14 overs per side due to inclement weather. Northamptonshire,batting first after losing the toss,initially found themselves in trouble. However, Bopara’s explosive innings turned the tide.
Bopara’s unbeaten 105 off just 46 balls, featuring 12 fours and five sixes, was the third T20 century of his illustrious career. His performance rescued Northamptonshire, guiding them to a competitive total of 154/4.
Surrey’s Valiant Response Falls Short
Surrey’s chase was anchored by Sam Curran, who continued his notable form following his pivotal role in Oval Invincibles’ recent Hundred title victory.Curran’s 69 not out off 38 balls brought the home side to the brink of victory.
Despite a late onslaught,including a six off the third ball of the final over,Surrey ultimately fell seven runs short of their target. The defeat prolongs Surrey’s wait for a second T20 title, having last lifted the trophy in 2003.
Key Moments & Performances
Ravi Bopara (Northamptonshire): 105 off 46 balls – a masterful innings demonstrating power and experience.
Sam Curran (Surrey): 69 off 38 balls – a determined effort that nearly secured victory for the home side. Jordan Clark (Surrey): 3-13 – early wickets put Northamptonshire under immediate pressure. George Scrimshaw (Northamptonshire): 3-34 – crucial strikes broke key partnerships and stifled Surrey’s momentum.
Early Struggles & Turning Points
Northamptonshire’s innings began poorly, losing both Ricardo Vasconcelos and captain David Willey for ducks in the first over. Surrey also experienced early setbacks, finding themselves at 9-2.
A 74-run partnership between Ollie pope (41 off 23) and Curran initially stabilized Surrey’s chase. however, Scrimshaw’s timely wickets of Pope, Dan Lawrence, and Laurie Evans disrupted their progress.
Finals Day bound
Northamptonshire will now compete at Finals Day on Saturday,September 13,live on Sky Sports. They’ll be aiming to replicate their 2016 success and add a third T20 title to their trophy cabinet.
Vitality Blast Quarter-Final Schedule (Live on Sky sports)
Here’s a look at the remaining quarter-final fixtures:
Wednesday,September 3: Northamptonshire beat Surrey by seven runs (The Kia Oval)
Friday,September 5: Durham vs. Hampshire (Chester-le-Street, 6:30 PM)
Saturday, September 6: Lancashire vs. Kent (Old Trafford, 2:30 PM)
Saturday, September 6: Somerset vs. Bears (Taunton, 6:30 PM)
Don’t miss the action as the teams battle for a place in the final! You can watch all the matches live on Sky Sports Cricket or stream them contract-free with NOW.
