Surrey host Middlesex on Friday night in a sold out Vitality Blast London Derby
Sam Curran’s side have won their previous four matches, but will be looking to get their first victory over Middlesex at the Kia Oval since 2022.
The match gets underway at 6:45pm and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
SURREY SQUAD
Jordan Clark comes into the 15-player Surrey squad.
HOW CAN I KEEP UP WITH THE MATCH?
The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports. Surrey Cricket’s social media channels will provide live updates, with clips and highlights posted throughout the day. A written report and highlights will be available at the end of the match. The ‘Oval & Out’ podcast will be posted on Surrey’s YouTube channel after the conclusion of the match.
MIDDLESEX
Previewed by Jon Batham, ECB Reporters Network supported by Rothesay
Captain: Stephen Eskinazi
Overseas players: Kane Williamson (New Zealand, full competition) and Josh Little (Ireland, full competition)
Finals Day appearances: One (2008)
Titles: One (2008)
2024 finish: Eighth (South Group)
2024 leading runscorer: Martin Andersson (282)
2024 leading wicket taker: Luke Hollman (23)
Key winter moves: The signings of a world-class batter in Kane Williamson and left-arm seamer Josh Little, a man with stacks of experience of franchise cricket, is a statement of intent. Last year’s leading run-scorer Martin Andersson has left for Derbyshire and it remains to be seen if another new arrival, Zafar Gohar will form a two-pronged spin attack alongside Luke Hollman.
The big question: Can Middlesex live up to head coach Richard Johnson’s great expectations? Johnson declared pre-season it was time to move from ‘developing to winning’. Williamson and Little’s presences will help, but youngsters invested in over recent years need to emulate Hollman’s feats from 2024 if the Seaxes are to improve on their record since lifting the trophy in 2008.
Wildcard watch: Joe Cracknell. The 25-year-old regressed a little last season, when shifted around the order and unable to settle into a specific role. However, whether in the powerplay or as a finisher he’s shown his ability as a big-hitter and a return to his best could see him add to the three appearances made for London Spirit in the inaugural Hundred of 2021.
Final thought: The only way is up for Middlesex, but their long-suffering supporters have heard that before. Andersson was 41stamong tournament runscorers last season while Max Holden’s strike-rate of 160 was strong but he rarely batted long enough. Williamson’s presence should help the pace the innings, which had some good starts but too many collapses. Hollman, fifth in last season’s list of wicket-takers can shine again, while Little’s experience in the powerplay and death overs will be key to any improvement.
