Jennings Century Powers Lancashire to Strong Position Against Nottinghamshire

Lancashire's Keaton Jennings produced a masterful century to guide his team to a commanding position on the opening day of their Vitality County Championship clash against Nottinghamshire at Southport.

Jennings, the Red Rose captain, anchored the Lancashire innings with an unbeaten 183 off 258 deliveries, laced with 26 fours and four sixes. His innings proved crucial as the visitors threatened to seize control after lunch.

Despite the absence of James Anderson, who was rested, Lancashire's bowling attack, led by Dillon Pennington, kept Nottinghamshire in check. Pennington, who was recently selected for England's squad to face West Indies, claimed 2 for 70 from 23 overs.

Dane Paterson broke the opening partnership, dismissing Luke Wells for 7. However, Jennings and Bohannon steadied the ship, guiding Lancashire to 59 for 1 at lunch.

After the break, Nottinghamshire fought back with three quick wickets. Joe Clarke dropped Bohannon but made amends by catching him off Olly Stone's next delivery. Pennington then removed George Bell and Matty Hurst to leave Lancashire reeling at 120 for 4.

Jennings remained unyielding, counterattacking with calculated aggression and solid defense. He reached his century off 179 balls and found support from George Balderson, who contributed 41. Their 88-run partnership swung the momentum back in Lancashire's favor.

In the extended final session, Chris Green and Tom Bailey fell to Lyndon James, while Will Williams was dismissed by Pennington. However, Jennings continued to dominate, punishing a tiring Nottinghamshire attack. He reached 150 off 47 balls, hitting sixes off Stone and Paterson.

Nottinghamshire's cause was further hindered by three dropped catches off Jennings. Lancashire ended the day on a strong 344 for 8, with Jennings poised to add to his tally on Monday.

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