Controversy marred the T20 Blast 2025 clash between Surrey and Middlesex at Lord’s Cricket Ground, London, on Wednesday, 16 July, as the third umpire made two questionable decisions, leaving players and fans alike stunned. Although Surrey clinched victory by eight runs, the spotlight shifted from the result to the umpiring errors, both of which occurred during Middlesex’s innings.
First Mistake: Stumping Confusion
In the 12th over, Surrey’s Will Jacks bowled to Luis du Plooy, who attempted a reverse sweep but missed the ball. The wicketkeeper quickly removed the bails, prompting a stumping appeal. The on-field umpire referred the decision to third umpire Nigel Long.
Replays clearly showed du Plooy’s foot inside the crease, indicating he was not out. However, due to a technical error, the big screen incorrectly flashed “OUT,” causing momentary confusion. Fortunately, the decision was promptly corrected, and du Plooy was allowed to continue his innings.
Second Blunder: Run Out Controversy
Just two overs later, in the 14th over, Stephen Eskinazi played a shot and ran, with du Plooy at the non-striker’s end. A quick throw hit the stumps, and the fielding team appealed for a run out. Once again, replays clearly showed du Plooy inside the crease, but this time, the third umpire upheld the “OUT” decision, which remained unchanged on the screen.
As a result, du Plooy was controversially dismissed, visibly disappointed as he walked back, while Middlesex supporters expressed frustration at the poor officiating.
Match Summary
Despite the umpiring controversies, Surrey managed to defend their total. They posted 189/9 in 20 overs, thanks to:
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Will Jacks – 52 runs
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Tom Curran – 47 runs
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Dan Lawrence – 24 runs
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Ryan Patel – 23 runs
For Middlesex, Ryan Higgins starred with the ball, taking 4 wickets for 33 runs in his four-over spell.
Chasing 190, Middlesex managed 181/6 in their 20 overs.
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Stephen Eskinazi scored a valiant 53 runs
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But Surrey’s Chris Jordan applied pressure with the ball, taking 2 wickets for 28 runs
