Surrey’s Dominic Sibley and Sam Curran led their team to a resounding five-wicket victory over Durham in the Vitality Blast semi-final at the Kia Oval. The duo’s blistering partnership of 95 runs in just 63 balls propelled Surrey to the final’s day.
Sibley, the former England opener, showcased his power-hitting prowess with a 48-ball 67, including two sixes and six fours. Curran, who had previously scored a century in the competition, contributed with a 34-ball 52, featuring four towering sixes.
Durham’s bowlers had initially put up a strong fight, reducing Surrey to 2 for 2 in the powerplay. However, Sibley and Curran’s counterattacking innings turned the tide in Surrey’s favor.
Earlier, Durham had posted a competitive 162 for 8, thanks to a valiant effort from Michael Jones (37), Bas De Leede (24), and Ben Raine (23). Surrey’s Dan Worrall and Reece Topley had wreaked havoc in the powerplay, claiming two wickets each.
Surrey’s chase began with a setback as Will Jacks and Laurie Evans fell cheaply. But Sibley and Rory Burns steadied the ship, with Sibley playing a more aggressive role than usual.
The introduction of spin proved costly for Surrey as Callum Parkinson dismissed Burns. However, Curran joined Sibley and the pair accelerated the run rate, hitting boundaries at will.
De Leede dropped a crucial catch of Curran, allowing the England all-rounder to continue his onslaught. Sibley reached his half-century with a majestic six, while Curran almost cleared The Oval with a massive hit off Nathan Sowter.
With only 15 runs needed, Sibley departed, but Curran and Jamie Overton saw Surrey home with 12 balls to spare.
