Southampton: Indian leg-spinner Rahul Chahar, who last represented India in the 2021 T20 World Cup, is making an impact in red-ball cricket with Surrey during the final round of the County Championship. Chahar made his debut for Surrey after missing the last two home games, stepping in for his fellow countryman R. Sai Kishore in the match against Hampshire at the Rose Bowl.
In a standout performance, Chahar dazzled with his wrist-spin bowling, leading to a dramatic collapse for Hampshire, who fell from 61/0 to 141/9. The only notable resistance came from Ali Orr, who scored 48, while Chahar claimed crucial wickets, including that of compatriot Washington Sundar. As of now, James Fuller remains unbeaten and offers Hampshire a slight glimmer of hope in an otherwise struggling batting display.
This performance marked Chahar’s eighth five-wicket haul in first-class cricket, with his figures currently at 7/45—his career-best in red-ball formats. After taking nine wickets in total in the match, he aims to secure his maiden 10-wicket match haul as Surrey looks to clinch a victory on the final day.
The batting conditions were challenging, as evidenced by Surrey’s innings where they were bowled out for just 147. Sundar’s half-century had earlier given Hampshire a 101-run lead, while Dom Sibley, Dan Lawrence, teenager Ralphie Albert, and Ben Foakes managed to set a difficult target of 181 runs for Hampshire to chase in their second innings.
Nottinghamshire has already been crowned champions of the season with 225 points, while Surrey is eager to finish on a high note with a win on Saturday.
