Ackermann Century Powers Durham to Victory Over Northamptonshire
Durham’s Colin Ackermann notched his maiden List A century to guide his team to a thrilling four-wicket victory over Northamptonshire Steelbacks in the Metro Bank One-Day Cup at the Riverside.
Ackermann’s unbeaten 108 anchored Durham’s chase of Northamptonshire’s 260, which they achieved with 11 balls to spare. The Steelbacks’ innings had been propelled by Prithvi Shaw’s 71-ball 97, but Durham’s spinners stifled the run rate to set up their second win of the competition.
Northamptonshire’s innings started with a flurry of boundaries, but Bas de Leede’s wicket-maiden halted their momentum. Shaw continued to dominate, reaching his fifty in 31 balls, but his innings was cut short by a top-edged sweep to Mitch Killeen.
George Drissell and Paul Coughlin claimed further wickets to leave Northamptonshire on 162 for three. Ackermann and Borthwick’s spin duo then took control, restricting the visitors to 260 all out.
Durham’s chase began cautiously, with Michael Jones and Ben McKinney dismissed early. However, Ackermann and Alex Lees formed a crucial partnership, adding 133 runs for the third wicket. Lees departed for 55, but Ackermann continued his assault, reaching his century in 95 balls.
Ackermann’s dismissal triggered a mini-collapse, with Borthwick and Haydon Mustard also falling cheaply. However, de Leede’s unbeaten 15 ensured Durham crossed the finish line with ease.
Ackermann’s match-winning knock and the spinners’ impressive performance were key factors in Durham’s victory. Northamptonshire, on the other hand, must win their remaining four matches to qualify for the knockout stages.
