Grace Harris Leads Surrey to Women's T20 Blast Title, Defeats Sister Laura in Final Showdown

Australia’s Grace Harris delivered a match-winning performance to guide Surrey to a five-wicket victory over Birmingham Bears in the Women’s Vitality T20 Blast final at the Kia Oval on Sunday. Her unbeaten 63 off 33 balls not only secured Surrey the title but also gave her bragging rights over her sister, Laura Harris, who featured for the runners-up, Warwickshire.

Chasing 154, Surrey sealed the win with 20 balls to spare, led by Grace’s typically explosive innings featuring seven fours and two sixes. Her efforts were well supported by Sophia Dunkley (23 off 13) and Kira Chathli, who struck the winning boundary to remain unbeaten on 16 from nine balls.

However, it was nearly a different story, as Laura Harris threatened to take the game away during the Bears' innings with a rapid 25 off just 11 balls, before being dismissed by a crucial catch from Phoebe Franklin at deep midwicket in the 14th over.

"I was a little bit nervous," Grace admitted. "You want her to do well, but I’m happy she got out when she did—it could’ve been a 180 chase otherwise."

Earlier, Birmingham's spinners Amu Surenkumar and Hannah Baker applied pressure with early wickets, reducing Surrey to 42 for 3. But Grace quickly countered, setting the tempo by driving her third delivery for four, and never looked back.

Reflecting on the win, Harris emphasized the importance of maintaining intent during a chase. "Sometimes chasing 140 can be trickier than 160—you think you can knock it around and get there, but you can lose momentum. We stayed aggressive and that made the difference."

She cited a similar experience in the 2023 Women’s Big Bash final, where her Brisbane Heat side failed to chase 120, falling to the Adelaide Strikers due to a passive approach.

The final was also a showcase for Phoebe Franklin, whose all-round display included figures of 2 for 16 and a direct-hit run-out. Harris was full of praise: “Phoebe has been our player of the season. She delivers under pressure with both bat and ball. She’s taken every opportunity thrown her way.”

For the Bears, it was a valiant run to the final, having defeated The Blaze in the semi-final thanks to Issy Wong, who starred with 4 for 14 and a blistering half-century. Though her final performance couldn’t match those heights, Wong remains optimistic about the team’s future.

“We knew it would be tough against two top sides, but I’m proud of the girls,” said Wong. “We’ve got such a young squad—I’m 23 and one of the oldies!”

Wong also reflected on her personal comeback after recent struggles, particularly in The Hundred. “The last couple of years were challenging, but now I feel like I’m back to being myself—this is the best job in the world.”

With Surrey claiming the silverware and standout performances across the board, the 2025 Women’s T20 Blast final delivered drama, family rivalry, and a glimpse of the next generation of cricketing talent.