On Thursday (July 18) at the iconic Kennington Oval in London, Sam Curran etched his name in the T20 record books with a scintillating maiden century during the T20 Blast 2024 clash between Surrey and Hampshire. Curran’s remarkable innings played a crucial role in Surrey’s thrilling chase and has marked a milestone in his career.

Early struggles and Sam Curran’s resilience

Surrey’s pursuit of a formidable target of 184 runs began in rocky fashion, as they stumbled to 27 for three within just 4.1 overs. Key players Will Jacks, Laurie Evans and Rory Burns were all dismissed for single-digit scores, putting immense pressure on the middle order.

In the midst of this turmoil, Dom Sibley provided some stability with 27 runs off 24 balls before being dismissed by John Turner. Curran, arriving at No. 5, took on the challenge with composure and intent. His initial aggressive stroke play saw him reach a well-deserved half-century off 34 balls. Despite the daunting task ahead, with Surrey needing 72 runs from the final seven overs, Curran remained undeterred.

Also WATCH: Liam Livingstone pulls off a sensational catch to dismiss Lyndon James in the T20 Blast game

Century achievement and match-winning partnerships for Surrey

Curran’s innings was a masterclass in power hitting and strategic play. As the target dwindled to just two runs required off the last over, Curran needed four runs to secure his century. He seized the moment by launching the first ball of the 20th over for a colossal six over long-on off James Fuller, securing his hundred in style. He remained unbeaten on 102 runs from 58 balls, punctuating his innings with seven boundaries and six sixes.

Here’s the video:

His innings featured a crucial 86-run partnership with Sibley for the fourth wicket and a vital 54-run stand with Jamie Overton for the fifth wicket. Curran’s ability to accelerate the scoring and deliver under pressure was instrumental in steering Surrey to victory.

Team standings in the T20 Blast 2024

The victory, driven by Curran’s explosive knock, solidified Surrey’s position at the top of the South Group table with 20 points from nine wins in 13 games. Meanwhile, Hampshire, having already been eliminated from the tournament prior to this game, are languishing with just seven points, having secured only three victories in the same number of games.

Also WATCH: Matthew Waite hits George Garton for 34 runs in an over during T20 Blast 2024