In a thrilling cricket match at the Riverside Ground, Alex Lees showcased his exceptional batting skills, scoring a remarkable 125 runs against Surrey. His innings of almost six hours was the bedrock of Durham’s place in the final on a tricky pitch. Despite the sweltering 90-degree temperatures, Lees maintained his composure and focus, frustrating the Surrey bowlers throughout his time at the crease.
Late hundred Lees reached his impressive milestone during the 74th over of Durham’s innings, bringing up his 31st first-class hundred in style. In facing 240 balls, he hit 18 boundaries, a balance of patience and aggression befitting a match-saving knock. His innings was remarkable not for its beauty but for its sheer stubbornness. He fought his way through nearly eight innings in the sweltering heat, developing key relationships that fortified his troupe.
Starting day three on a deficit of 33 and with Durham 59-1, Lees soon settled into a groove. He went on to build a crucial 152-run partnership with Ollie Robinson. This was after the early departures of Will Rhodes and Colin Ackermann, immediately before lunch. The two batsmen worked diligently to stabilize the innings, with Lees reaching 80 runs through successive fours off Matt Fisher.
The Test match took a thrilling twist when Sam Curran produced a spirited appeal for LBW against Lees on 64, that was rejected by the umpire. The umpire rejected the appeal, allowing Lees to carry on with his innings. Sadly for Durham, Lees’ stellar run was abruptly cut short just before tea on day three. He narrowly gloved a short ball from Dan Worrall straight to first slip fielder Jacks.
His dismissal was the start of major turning point in favour of Surrey. Worrall’s initial burst had reduced Derbyshire to 30 for four in a flash. This was followed quickly by the dismissals of Jimmy Neesham and Ollie Robinson, as the Surrey attack began to take control of the match.
Lees’ innings was a triumph of individual talent, but just as importantly, it was a masterclass in the value of partnerships in the game. His partnership with Robinson gave Durham a sense of calm and reassurance, especially during the period when the team was under fire from the Surrey attack.
As the game unfolds, there will need to be considerations from both sides as to what is and isn’t working. With Lees’ century in the books, Durham will look to build on that foundation to challenge Surrey further in this gripping encounter.
Leave a Reply