Derbyshire’s Zak Chappell produced a stunning all-round performance to guide his team to a remarkable eight-wicket victory over Northamptonshire in the Metro Bank One-Day Cup.
Chasing 236 to win at Wantage Road, Derbyshire found themselves in dire straits at 79 for seven. However, Chappell joined forces with skipper Ross Whiteley and turned the tide with a record-breaking eighth-wicket partnership of 131.
Chappell, who had earlier claimed career-best bowling figures of 4 for 39, smashed an unbeaten 94 off 88 deliveries, including 10 fours and two sixes. Whiteley contributed a valuable 65 as the pair steered Derbyshire to an unlikely triumph.
Northamptonshire’s innings had been anchored by half-centuries from Emilio Gay (59) and George Bartlett (50). Saif Zaib and Lewis McManus also chipped in with useful contributions, but a late collapse saw the Steelbacks lose five wickets for 22 runs in quick succession.
Samit Patel played a key role in the Derbyshire bowling attack, taking 3 for 41. Teenage pacer Raphy Weatherall impressed on his List A debut, claiming 4 for 50, but his efforts proved insufficient as Chappell and Whiteley stole the show.
Derbyshire’s victory was their second in the competition, while Northamptonshire suffered their first defeat. The result leaves Derbyshire in a strong position to qualify for the knockout stages, while Northamptonshire will need to bounce back in their remaining fixtures.
