Bopara has appeared in every year of England’s domestic T20 tournament since it launched in 2003 and, in his tally of 221 innings in the competition, it is inconceivable to think he has produced a better batting display.

Northants lost Vasconcelos and captain David Willey for ducks in Jordan Clark’s first over but the visitors, who were responsible for three of the four highest team totals during the group phase, quickly regrouped.

Clark and Chris Jordan (1-22) apart, Surrey’s bowlers felt the full force of Bopara’s onslaught. Curran and older brother Tom went for 74 runs off their five overs combined, while England paceman Gus Atkinson was hit for 18 off his solitary over.

Bopara’s brilliance had put Northants in a great position but Surrey, their batting line-up littered with internationals, were far from out of the contest.

England Test batter Ollie Pope (41) added 74 for the third wicket with his skipper before being dismissed by George Scrimshaw (3-34), who also removed Dan Lawrence in the same over and later the dangerous Laurie Evans.

Some accurate deliveries from Ben Sanderson and Willey left Surrey needing 19 off Sanderson’s final over and that task proved beyond them.