Ben Foakes scores unbeaten century to save Surrey from Essex defeat

Ben Foakes scored an unbeaten 120 to secure a draw for Surrey against Essex at Chelmsford in the Rothesay County Championship Division One. The result prevents Surrey from potentially falling into the relegation zone with only four matches remaining in the season.

Foakes entered the final day with Surrey at 51 for four, facing the prospect of an innings defeat. He anchored the innings with a 292-minute vigil, supported by Adam Thomas (33) and Tom Lawes (44). Rahul Chahar contributed 17 not out to help finalize the draw.

Earlier in the match, Dean Elgar scored 113 for Essex, but Rahul Chahar’s bowling performance, which included six wickets for 80 runs, helped limit the lead. The match was impacted by rain, which washed out the third day of play.