Surrey secured their third straight County Championship crown after Somerset's defeat to Lancashire dashed the latter’s hopes of a maiden title. Somerset needed a win at Old Trafford to stay in the race, but their 168-run loss on the final morning ended their chances.
This victory marks Surrey’s 23rd Championship title overall, following their 10-wicket triumph over Durham. By lifting the trophy in 2022, 2023, and now 2024, this Surrey team has cemented its legacy, becoming the first squad since Yorkshire, 56 years ago, to win three consecutive titles.
Surrey’s dominance in the Championship isn't new. Between 1952 and 1958, they claimed seven titles in a row, and in the 1890s, they won five of the first six championships. However, they still trail Yorkshire’s record 33 titles.
Surrey’s head coach, Gareth Batty, reflected on the monumental achievement, emphasizing the collective effort that has gone into the team’s success. He noted how satisfying it was to secure three consecutive titles and remarked that the squad would celebrate briefly before refocusing on the challenges ahead. Batty mentioned the ongoing effort to maintain their edge, acknowledging that other teams are constantly improving and attempting to close the gap. He praised the squad’s rotation, depth, and resilience, especially given that Surrey used 25 players in the T20 Blast and 24 in the Championship, a luxury many other counties don’t have.
As Batty put it, the entire squad, from players to staff, has contributed to the sustained success of the team, working tirelessly to maintain their dominance.
Squad Depth and Key Performances Power Surrey to Glory
Despite being without several key internationals throughout the season, Surrey’s squad depth shone through. A total of 23 players were used during the campaign, with only captain Rory Burns, opener Dom Sibley, and all-rounder Jordan Clark playing all 13 matches. Burns led by example, scoring over 1,000 runs, including three centuries, with a career-best 227 against Lancashire.
Wicketkeeper Jamie Smith’s exceptional batting propelled him into England’s Test squad, averaging over 56 in his nine matches. Dan Lawrence, after his move from Essex, contributed solidly, averaging just under 50.
On the bowling front, Dan Worrall was Surrey’s standout pacer, claiming 52 wickets at an average of 16.15. Clark’s all-round contributions were invaluable, taking 38 wickets and scoring 467 runs, cementing his status as one of county cricket’s most versatile players. Cameron Steel set the tone early in the season with 20 wickets in the opening rounds, though his form tapered off.
However, a major change is on the horizon for Surrey. Cricketing legend Alec Stewart will be stepping down as the club’s director of cricket, a move that could have a significant impact next season.
Surrey’s remarkable success is a testament to the depth, talent, and unity of the squad, leaving them poised for continued dominance in the seasons to come.