Surrey have retained the County Championship, winning the title for the 22nd time in their history.
The county’s third title in the past six seasons was secured after their nearest challengers in Division One, Essex were bowled out for 211 in their first innings against Northamptonshire.
A 20-point gap between the top two heading into the final round of fixtures meant Surrey required just five points to claim the crown for a second successive year.
Their failure to take any batting bonus points against Hampshire left the door slightly ajar for Essex, who needed to post a 400-plus score in 110 overs at Wantage Road to keep the title race alive.
More to follow…
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