• Kieron Pollard’s 34 from 22 was crucial in Surrey’s victory.
•  Pollard, still has plenty of explosive moments in him.
• He had left Surrey only 22 runs short.

Pollard selected the venue that brought back memories of one of his most traumatic times in his career to put his worst IPL season behind him and reaffirm his status as one of the world’s most destructive hitters.

It was only a suggestion, that Pollard, at 35, still has plenty of explosive moments in him, but his 34 from 22 was crucial in extending Surrey’s record of eight successive wins and maintaining their domination in the South Group. Hampshire, riding high on four consecutive victories. Had them work hard on a superb surface with speed and bounce before succumbing by four wickets with five balls to spare.

Kieron Pollard was hit in the eye by a short ball from Dominic Cork in the T20 final at the Ageas Bowl ten years ago. His right eye was closed by swelling. He feared catastrophic harm. Though scans in a Southampton hospital revealing nothing abnormal. It’s about a week after his return to Trinidad before he was assured that his vision was unaffected.

Kieron Pollard Pollard glided towards the pavilion, bowing philosophically in acknowledgement of the catch’s brilliance. With 26 deliveries and five wickets remaining. He had left Surrey only 22 runs short.

Pollard’s run has been so poor that his 34 was his best score since he hit 41 against England in Barbados in January.

With a Test debut on the horizon, perhaps he was being cautious.  Perhaps he was adopting a steady-away approach to the shorter format. Whatever it was, it was a comfort to learn that when he went over in his third over during his follow-through. But no harm was done.