Usman Afzaal demonstrated his incredible ability to strike a ball at Whitgift before more rain meant that Surrey’s Friends Provident Trophy match against Sussex was called off.

Surrey recovered well after the early loss of James Benning. Scott Newman lead the way with an attacking 45. The left hander found some good support from Matthew Spriegel as he smashed the ball down the ground and square of the wicket through point.

A short rain delay when Surrey were on 50 for one did not halt the Brown Caps progress as both players continued to strike the ball nicely. However the introduction of Ragheb Aga brought about three quick wickets. The medium quick bowled Newman before having Spriegel caught behind only one run later. He then bowled Ali Brown in his following over leaving Surrey four wickets down for 81.

Usman Afzaal then came to the crease and looked in great form off the back of his century against Yorkshire last Saturday. He smashed a rapid 43 from only 21 deliveries including four sixes on the trot again Aga and in the process gained the momentum back for Surrey. When he went with the score on 135, it was left to Surrey’s two wicket keeper batsmen, Jonathan Batty and Gary Wilson, to push the run rate up even further with a mix of good striking and quick running between the wickets.

Surrey’s innings was cut short by four overs after another downpour, with Batty and Wilson both not out having scored 36 and 25 respectively.

Sadly more rain meant that there was no further chance of play. Surrey will however return to Whitgift on Friday for their LV County Championship match against Somerset.

You can see highlights of the day's play by clicking here.

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