Gareth Batty, Surrey's head coach, dedicated his team's third consecutive County Championship title to the outgoing director of cricket, Alec Stewart, describing him as "irreplaceable" and adding that it was "delusional" to think that anyone could emulate the influence he has wielded across his five decades at the Kia Oval.

Surrey are closing in on a third successive County Championship title after cruising to a 10-wicket win over Durham with a day to spare at The Oval. Durham, who began the third day trailing by 152, never recovered after losing two wickets in the first over to Dan Worrall.

Surrey successfully defended their County Championship title, securing it for the third consecutive season. The decisive moment came after Somerset lost to Lancashire. Surrey's victory over Durham ensured their triumph,