Cricket

Sussex's batting prowess was on full display on the second day of their Vitality County Championship Division Two clash with Derbyshire at Derby, as they amassed a formidable 357 for 5, thanks to a century from Cheteshwar Pujara and half-centuries from Tom Haines, Tom Alsop, and James Coles.Pujara, the Indian maestro, anchored the Sussex innings with an unbeaten 104, showcasing his impeccable technique and patience. Haines (58), Alsop (64), and Coles (72) provided valuable contributions, setting the stage for a commanding lead of 111 runs.Derbyshire's first innings had earlier concluded at 246, with Blair Tickner's career-best 47 and Jack Morley's 33 providing some resistance. However, Coles' left-arm spin proved too potent, claiming two late wickets to wrap up the innings.With the cloud cover dissipating, batting conditions improved significantly, allowing Tickner and Morley to flourish. Tickner's maiden first-class half-century was within reach before Coles' quicker delivery found his stumps. Morley, initially playing a supporting role, became more aggressive, hitting a six over long-on.However, Morley's dismissal to Coles' spin triggered a collapse, with Daryn Dupavillon removing Tom Clark early in Sussex's reply. Haines, though, seized the initiative, reaching his 50 off just 38 balls. Alsop joined the party, contributing 64 before falling lbw to Anuj Dal.Pujara's arrival at the crease brought a sense of calm, and he steadily accumulated runs. Coles, playing with aggression, reached his 50 off 74 balls. The pair forged a 141-run partnership, putting Sussex in a dominant position.Despite late wickets from Luis Reece, Sussex remained in control, with Pujara and John Carson seeing out the day. The visitors will be confident of extending their lead on the third day and putting Derbyshire under further pressure.

Somerset's hopes of securing a positive result against Worcestershire were dealt a blow on day three of their Vitality County Championship clash at Kidderminster. Despite a valiant century from Gareth Roderick, England spinner Shoaib Bashir's incisive spell of bowling put Worcestershire in the ascendancy.Roderick's determined innings, which included 16 boundaries and a six, helped Worcestershire establish a first-innings lead of 142. His partnership with Jake Libby, who fell three runs short of a century, laid the foundation for Worcestershire's dominance.Bashir, who had endured a quiet start to the season, found his rhythm on a wicket offering some turn. He removed Libby and Kashif Ali in quick succession, and his 28-over spell kept the Somerset batters on their toes.Somerset's batting woes continued as Jason Holder dismissed Sean Dickson in the final over of the day. The Libby-Roderick partnership was a testament to their blossoming partnership, with Libby continuing his impressive form this season.Contributions from Adam Hose, Brett D'Oliveira, and Joe Leach ensured Worcestershire pushed home their advantage. Sterling work by the ground-staff allowed play to commence at 12.10pm after heavy overnight rain, with only 10 overs lost.Roderick's century was a highlight of the day, but Bashir's bowling and Worcestershire's collective batting effort put Somerset on the back foot. The match remains finely poised, with Somerset needing to bat with resilience and Worcestershire seeking to capitalize on their lead.