Durham and Essex played out a thrilling draw in their Vitality County Championship match at the Seat Unique Riverside, with both teams showcasing impressive performances.
Essex, batting first, amassed a formidable 488 runs, thanks to Nick Browne’s patient century (184) and Aron Khushi’s valuable 107. Durham’s bowlers fought back, with Callum Parkinson claiming his maiden five-wicket haul (5-131).
In response, Durham posted 358, led by Michael Ackermann’s 112, Will Robinson’s 90, and David Bedingham’s 52. Essex held a 130-run lead, but Durham’s bowlers kept them at bay.
On the final day, Essex pushed for victory, but Alex Lees’ resolute 48 not out in 128 minutes proved too much to overcome. Durham reached 131 for 2 before bad light ended play, with Bedingham unbeaten on 33.
Browne’s century was a testament to his patience, having faced 238 balls over 286 minutes. Parkinson’s five-wicket haul was a significant achievement for the young spinner.
Despite the draw, both teams earned valuable points. Durham took 12 points, while Essex received 14, leaving them equal on points with Surrey at the top of the First Division.
