Surrey’s pursuit of a third consecutive Division One title hit a minor roadblock as they were forced to settle for a draw against relegation-threatened Nottinghamshire in the Vitality County Championship at Trent Bridge.
Despite a record-breaking 10-wicket match haul from teenage off-spinner Farhan Ahmed, Surrey’s declaration at 177 for 9 in their second innings left Nottinghamshire with a target of 298 from a minimum 48 overs. The home side responded with a resolute batting display, reaching 121 without loss at the close of play, with openers Haseeb Hameed and Ben Slater both scoring half-centuries.
The draw reduces Surrey’s lead at the top of the table to 24 points, while Nottinghamshire remain 10 points clear of Lancashire in the battle to avoid relegation.
Rory Burns, who had scored 161 in the first innings, added 71 in the second, while Liam Patterson-White finished with five for 94 for Nottinghamshire. However, it was Ahmed who stole the show, becoming the youngest player to take 10 or more wickets in a first-class match in Britain since WG Grace in 1865.
Ahmed’s remarkable achievement overshadowed the efforts of England off-spinner Will Jacks, who had also taken seven wickets in the first innings. Surrey’s decision to declare just shy of an hour after lunch may have been a tactical error, as Nottinghamshire were able to bat cautiously and avoid defeat.
Despite the draw, Surrey remain in a strong position to secure the title, while Nottinghamshire’s hopes of survival have been boosted.
