BEARS Women missed the chance to become the first-ever women’s T20 Blast champions following a five-wicket defeat against Surrey in the final.
The Bears finished on 153-9 at the end of their 20 overs as Issy Wong top scored with the bat at the Kia Oval.
However, hosts Surrey reached the required target with five wickets and 20 balls to spare as Grace Harris produced a sparkling knock.
Alistair Maiden’s side had earlier claimed a 20-run win against The Blaze as Wong starred with bat and ball in a Finals Day eliminator.
However, the Bears struggled to build a strong enough partnership with the bat against Surrey in the final with Wong (31) one of four batters to reach the 20-run mark.
Laura Harris (25), Nat Wraith (23) and Mille Taylor (20 not out) all scored useful runs but Surrey took wickets at regular intervals to restrict the Bears to a total of 153.
And G Harris (63 not out) inspired Surrey to victory in a 33-ball knock which included nine boundaries supported by Sophia Dunkley (23).
Both Amu Surenkumar (2-13) and Em Arlott (2-29) took two wickets apiece in vain as Surrey tasted victory on their home pitch.
