[WATCH] Vitality Blast 2025: Luke Hollman’s outrageously innovative shot nearly lands for a six

Luke Hollman played a one-of-a-kind stroke which nearly travelled all the way for a maximum during a South Group clash between Middlesex and Surrey in the ongoing Vitality Blast 2025 competition. It was one of the four consecutive boundaries (including a six) which the all-rounder scored off Sam Curran’s bowling in the penultimate over of the run-chase on Thursday.

It was an intended back-of-a-hand delivery from Curran, which was probably bowled after he saw Hollman shuffle across the stumps for a lap shot. However, the ball lacked pace and had a more loopy trajectory than how Curran would usually produce. As a result, Hollman ended with more time, which he utilized to change his grip and launch the ball to the deep backward point fence for a one-bounce four.

Watch the outrageous stroke by Hollman here

Hollman remained unbeaten on 32 off 14 in a knock which comprised five fours and a six. His leg spin in the first innings yielded figures of 2/34 in four overs. Despite an impressive all-round performance, Middlesex ended up falling short by eight runs at the end.

They even lost three wickets less than Surrey during their innings (181/6 vs 189/9). Despite this, they could not claim victory. Another person who impressed with both bat and ball was Ryan Higgins. He had picked up four wickets (4/33 in four overs) before remaining unbeaten on 29 off 18 deliveries. Higgins and Hollman stitched together an unbeaten 62-run partnership off just 29 balls.

This particular contest was both sides’ 13th game of this year’s 20-over competition. While Surrey extended their winning streak to four by winning their 10th match, Middlesex suffered their eighth defeat in as many number of matches. They have had a no-result and a tie too.