Yorkshire's youthful lineup delivered an impressive performance, defeating Surrey by 25 runs in a rain-affected Metro Bank One-Day Cup match at the Kia Oval. Will Luxton's dynamic 83 off 79 balls, along with George Hill's 51 from 38 balls and four late sixes from Matt Revis, propelled Yorkshire to 240 for six in 33 overs.
Luxton, making his 15th List A appearance, showcased his talent with 12 boundaries, while Hill contributed significantly with both bat and ball, taking three wickets for 41 runs. Set a revised target of 248 via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method, Surrey struggled to 222 for nine in response.
James Wharton, another young Yorkshire player, added to the drama with two spectacular boundary catches, including a remarkable one-handed grab to dismiss Ben Geddes. Ben Coad bowled Ryan Patel for 40, capping a superb seven-over spell that restricted Surrey's chase.
Yorkshire's innings faced multiple rain interruptions, leading to a reduced game. From a promising position of 158 for three after 26 overs, they launched a final seven-over sprint, setting a challenging DLS-adjusted target for Surrey.
Surrey's chase faltered early, losing Dom Sibley for one. Patel, briefly flourishing despite a dropped catch, was eventually bowled by Coad. Wharton's athletic catch removed Rory Burns, further denting Surrey's hopes. Ben Foakes and Cam Steel provided some resistance, with Foakes hitting a six off Dan Moriarty's spin. However, their partnership ended when Steel top-edged a shot to short fine leg off Hill.
With Surrey needing 121 runs from the final 10 overs, the pressure mounted. Foakes' departure for 40 left Josh Blake and Conor McKerr to add what they could, but it was not enough to avoid defeat.
Earlier, Yorkshire lost Finlay Bean cheaply, but Luxton's commanding stroke play, including elegant offside boundaries, set a strong foundation. Shan Masood supported with a steady 24 before being caught behind. Wharton contributed a quick 22, highlighted by a six off Steel, but fell to a brilliant catch by Steel himself.
After another rain delay, Luxton was on track for a century but fell for 83, attempting a big shot. Hill continued the momentum, reaching his fifty with a six before being dismissed by Steel. The innings concluded dramatically as Revis smashed four sixes in the final over, including three in a row, to push Yorkshire's total to a formidable 240.
The win showcased Yorkshire's depth and potential, signalling their capability to compete strongly in this year's tournament.