A memorable three-wicket over from Naavya Sharma, sailing in from the Brian Statham end with whippy action and fast arm, knocked the stuffing out of Lancashire, who slumped to a high-drama six-wicket defeat against their promotion rivals Middlesex after being bowled out for 84.
Sharma's Devastating Spell
Sharma's first ball of the morning was edged to slip by Matty Hurst, then a flat-footed Tom Hartley parried the next behind. Tom Bailey survived the hat-trick ball but his survival was brief as he fenced the final delivery also to slip. Sharma polished things off in his next over to finish with best bowling figures of four for 17.
Higgins Also Impresses
Ryan Higgins also claimed four wickets, including the bizarre dismissal of Mitch Stanley, who lost his leg bail despite the ball brushing off stump. Not even Jimmy Anderson could defend 117, and Ben Geddes put his foot down, slamming three sixes on the way to a match-winning 73 not out. It was Middlesex's first win in a Championship game at Old Trafford since 1996.
Durham's Dominant Victory
Durham swept to victory against Worcestershire after they too collapsed like a too-eager pile of bedside books. Worcestershire lost nine for 38 and were all out in a session, with Ben Stokes picking up a couple of late-order wickets. A flamboyant Ben McKinney and careful Emilio Gay made the chase of 143 look easy.
Essex Complete Three-Day Win
Essex became the third team to wrap up a three-day victory when they chased down 177 against Hampshire, thanks largely to 90 not out from Matt Critchley. It was Hampshire's third straight defeat.
Atkinson Concussed at Trent Bridge
At Trent Bridge, where Surrey and Nottinghamshire have exchanged big run-heavy blows, Gus Atkinson was hit twice on the helmet in two overs by Josh Tongue (4-89) and retired with delayed concussion. He will miss Surrey's next match under concussion rules, with Reece Topley substituting in. Dan Lawrence's 104 was his third century of the spring.
