Sam Curran enjoying life back at Surrey CCC as they have a Blast in T20 format

BY MARCUS HOOK

England all-rounder Sam Curran says he loves playing for Surrey whenever the opportunity arises. It showed when the 23-year-old marked his 100th T20 appearance with a career best 72 not out, to complete an emphatic seven-wicket victory over Somerset.

Laurie Evans (65) also made hay at Taunton as Surrey strolled, rather than strutted, their way to a victory that was sealed with four overs to spare.

Twenty four hours earlier Curran junior had shone with the ball, taking 4-29 at Lord’s as the South Londoners brushed aside Middlesex; though not before Will Jacks had smashed 70 off just 24 balls to earn himself the man of the match award.

Surrey have since added a third win, over Glamorgan, to record their best start to a Twenty20 campaign in 17 years.

“Last year was strange, with all the [England] bubbles and not being allowed to play for Surrey,” said Curran. “I hadn’t seen the guys in a while, so it was great to get back at the Oval.

“I came to the four-dayer against Gloucestershire and it was great to meet some Surrey fans as well. These first three games have been really good fun and playing in front of people again gives you that extra buzz.

“The way the guys are going, there’s a lot of confidence.

“We had a long journey down to Taunton. The traffic was pretty bad. The boys had a pretty rushed warm-up, but we started really well with the ball. The spinners dragged it back really nicely in the middle. The seamers bowled really well as well and we thought Somerset were a little bit short with the bat.

“The way we chased down 188 and the way we’re playing our cricket – the intent the batsmen are showing – is really pleasing. The way Laurie [Evans] has come back to Surrey and played has been phenomenal and Jacksy’s knock at Lord’s was amazing.”

From a personal perspective, Curran added: “Obviously I’ve been lucky enough to play around the world in T20 competitions and that’s really helped my game and learning the T20 way.

“I’m feeling really confident with the bat. I’ve been doing a lot of work on it – especially playing in the IPL you get that confidence playing with such big players. Hopefully it can continue.

“But the way Gareth Batty is marshalling everyone, we all know our roles, and Vikram Solanki and Alec Stewart are very clear what they want from us. There’s a really good vibe around the group, that’s the best thing about it.”

Meanwhile, New Zealand fast bowler, Kyle Jamieson has signed a short-term deal for Surrey across formats, and will link up with the Oval outfit on June 25, at the conclusion of the World Test Championship final against India.

Jamieson will remain with the Surrey squad until their final Vitality Blast group game and will be available for their two remaining group fixtures in the County Championship, against Hampshire at the Ageas Bowl (July 4-7) and Somerset at The Oval (July 11-14)

“I’m really excited to get the chance to play some county cricket,” said Jamieson. “Originally I didn’t think this opportunity would be possible with the schedule this year, but with how things have unfolded it’s great to be able to join Surrey and experience both T20 and first-class cricket.

“Playing county cricket is something I’ve always wanted to do, so to have the chance to do so now is awesome.

“I’ve heard a lot of great things about county cricket, particularly T20 Blast nights at the Kia Oval, and can’t wait to take up the opportunity with Surrey to continue to learn and grow whilst trying my best to contribute to the teams’ success.”