Australian opener Marcus Harris anchored Leicestershire’s innings on a rain-affected opening day of the Vitality County Championship match against Derbyshire at Derby. Despite Derbyshire’s fielding lapses, Harris remained unbeaten on 77 from 147 deliveries, guiding Leicestershire to a respectable 168 for 2.
Derbyshire’s decision to bowl first on a green-tinged pitch backfired as Harris and Rishi Patel put on a 50-run partnership before rain halted play shortly after midday. Patel was dropped on nine by Aneurin Donald, while Harris received two reprieves from Wayne Madsen.
Upon resumption, Derbyshire’s bowlers continued to struggle, with Harris edging Anuj Dal to Madsen, who once again failed to hold on. However, Blair Tickner broke the partnership by dismissing Patel for 36, finding enough away movement to beat his forward defensive push.
Rain returned shortly after, keeping the players off the field until 5.30pm. When play resumed, Derbyshire claimed a second wicket when Louis Kimber edged Sam Conners to Donald at third slip.
Harris and skipper Lewis Hill (34 not out) then took control, scoring freely in the closing overs to leave Leicestershire in a strong position heading into day two.
