Durham Dominate Day One with McKinney's Maiden Century

Durham Dominate Day One with McKinney’s Maiden Century

Durham’s batting prowess was on full display on day one of their Vitality County Championship clash with Nottinghamshire, as Ben McKinney and Alex Lees powered the hosts to a commanding 393 for 5.

McKinney, making his second County Championship appearance, showcased his exceptional talent with a maiden first-class century. The 19-year-old left-hander dominated the Notts bowling attack, smashing boundaries with ease and laying a solid foundation for Durham.

Lees, the experienced opener, provided stability and anchored the innings, reaching his third century of the season. The pair put on an impressive 189-run opening partnership, the highest for Durham this season.

Nottinghamshire fought back with three wickets, but Lees combined with Ashton Turner for a 122-run partnership to keep the hosts in control. Turner, making his first-class debut for Durham, played a crucial role in accumulating runs and keeping the scoreboard ticking.

McKinney’s innings was a testament to his aggressive approach and shot-making ability. He reached his fifty with a cover drive and brought up his century with a beautiful cover drive. However, his knock ended on 121 when he chipped a delivery to midwicket.

Lees, on the other hand, played a more patient innings, reaching his century from 223 balls with just seven boundaries. His innings was a display of resilience and determination.

Despite Notts’ efforts, Durham remained in a dominant position at the close of play. Turner remained unbeaten on 62, while Graham Clark contributed 7. The visitors face an uphill battle to contain Durham’s batting lineup and prevent them from posting a mammoth total.

Bess Heath Signs with Durham, Bolstering Tier 1 Women's Cricket

Bess Heath Signs with Durham, Bolstering Tier 1 Women’s Cricket

Bess Heath, England’s rising star wicketkeeper-batter, has inked a three-year deal with Durham, solidifying her position as a cornerstone of the Tier 1 outfit. The move marks a significant shift in the women’s county cricket landscape, as Durham prepares to replace the Northern Diamonds in the new competition from 2025 onwards.

Heath, 22, has amassed over 3000 runs across all formats since her professional debut four years ago. Her impressive performances earned her a place in the England squad, where she has made five appearances, including against Sri Lanka last year.

Throughout her burgeoning career, Heath has represented various teams, including Brisbane Heat, Northern Superchargers, Melbourne Stars, and Yorkshire. With Northern Diamonds, she reached the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy final in her debut season in 2020 and lifted the trophy two years later. Her exceptional 286 runs in the same competition last summer earned her a nomination for the PCA Women’s Young Player of the Year award.

Heath’s decision to join Durham comes amidst a period of transition for the Diamonds squad, following the relocation of the new club’s base from Headingley to Chester-le-Street. Her teammate and fellow wicketkeeper, Lauren Winfield-Hill, is expected to remain with her native Yorkshire, despite their Tier 2 status next summer.

Upon joining Durham, Heath expressed her excitement: “I am so excited to be joining Durham from next season and get going in the North East. The opportunity to join Durham is something I am very much looking forward to and hopefully I can play my part in creating new history for Durham.”

Marcus North, Director of Cricket, hailed Heath’s signing: “Bess is one of the most exciting young talents in England, and we are thrilled to have recruited her to Durham on a long-term contract.”

“Despite being only 22, she already has a tremendous amount of experience in the domestic game and we look forward to seeing her continue to thrive at Durham as she looks to add more England caps.”

Meanwhile, David Ripley has been appointed as the Head Coach of Northamptonshire’s Women for their inaugural Tier 2 season next year. Ripley, who guided Northamptonshire’s men to two T20 Blast titles in 2013 and 2016, also achieved two promotions to the County Championship Division One.

Ripley will officially take up his new role in February 2025, ahead of a maiden Tier 2 season that will also feature Derbyshire, Glamorgan, Gloucestershire, Kent, Leicestershire, Middlesex, Sussex, Worcestershire, and Yorkshire.

“I’m delighted to be joining the Women’s Steelbacks as Head Coach, it’s exciting times ahead as the new format is rolled out,” Ripley said. “As well as a competitive senior team I hope to help develop our younger girls into future professional players, in partnership with our pathway coaches.”

Derbyshire Triumphs Over Durham, But Quarterfinal Hopes Dashed

Derbyshire Triumphs Over Durham, But Quarterfinal Hopes Dashed

Derbyshire Falcons’ valiant efforts fell short of securing a Metro Bank One Day Cup quarter-final berth, despite a thrilling four-wicket victory over Durham at Chester-le-Street. The win was overshadowed by Hampshire’s superior net run rate, which ultimately denied Derbyshire a knockout stage berth.

Durham’s innings was anchored by Scott Borthwick’s maiden List A century (104), but a spirited fightback from Derbyshire’s bowlers, led by teenager Harry Moore (3-45), restricted the hosts to 253 all out.

Derbyshire’s chase got off to a promising start, with David Lloyd (63) and Harry Came (45) putting the visitors in a strong position. However, Ben Raine’s four-wicket haul gave Durham hope. Anuj Dal (25*) and Zak Chappell (22*) ultimately guided Derbyshire to victory with seven balls to spare.

The match began with Derbyshire electing to bowl first. Moore made an early impact, dismissing Alex Lees, while Dal removed Michael Jones. Borthwick and Colin Ackermann steadied the Durham innings, but Chappell broke the partnership with Ackermann’s wicket.

Borthwick reached his century, but Patel’s dismissal of the Durham captain left the hosts in trouble. Haydon Mustard’s cameo helped Durham recover, but they were eventually bowled out for 253.

Derbyshire’s chase started cautiously, but Came and Reece looked comfortable. Raine’s dismissal of Reece and Guest put Durham back in the game. Lloyd and Came rebuilt the innings, but Parkinson’s wickets of Came and Lloyd gave Durham hope.

Raine’s fourth wicket, Patel, left Derbyshire needing 46 runs to win. Chappell and Dal calmly guided the visitors home, securing a victory that ultimately proved insufficient to secure a quarter-final berth.

Durham Stuns Kent in Metro Bank Cup Thriller

Durham Stuns Kent in Metro Bank Cup Thriller

Durham pulled off a thrilling seven-run victory over Kent Spitfires in the Metro Bank Cup on Sunday, keeping their hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive.

After winning the toss and electing to bowl, Durham witnessed a superb century from Ben McKinney (115 off 116 balls) that propelled them to a competitive total of 307. McKinney’s knock was studded with three sixes and 13 fours, while Bas de Leede (47) provided valuable support.

Kent’s chase got off to a promising start as Harry Finch (104 off 91 balls) and Jack Leaning (81) stitched together a 183-run partnership for the third wicket. However, the Spitfires suffered a dramatic collapse, losing six wickets for 71 runs.

George Drissell emerged as the hero for Durham, claiming 4 for 38. His crucial wickets included Finch, Leaning, and Grant Stewart (3). Colin Ackermann (3-36) also played a key role in restricting Kent’s scoring.

In the final over, Kent needed 17 runs to win. Ackermann defended the target admirably, conceding only 10 runs and securing a memorable victory for Durham.

The result leaves Durham in contention for the knockout stages, while Kent’s hopes of progressing have been dashed.

Durham Crush Hampshire with Ackermann and Wagner Heroics

Durham Crush Hampshire with Ackermann and Wagner Heroics

Durham’s hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages of the Metro Bank One-Day Cup received a significant boost as they secured a comprehensive 144-run victory over Hampshire at Gosforth.

Colin Ackermann’s resilient 96 and Neil Wagner’s impressive all-round contribution proved pivotal in Durham’s triumph. Ackermann, who had been struggling for form, played a captain’s knock, hitting five sixes in his 98-ball innings. Wagner, making his debut for Durham after retiring from Test cricket earlier this year, added 33 runs with the bat and then took 2 for 18 with the new ball.

Hampshire, who started the day in second place in Group A, were bowled out for a paltry 113 in reply to Durham’s 257. Paul Coughlin also chipped in with three wickets for the hosts.

Durham’s innings got off to a shaky start as they lost their top three batsmen cheaply. However, Ackermann and Wagner steadied the ship with a crucial 62-run partnership for the eighth wicket. Ackermann reached his half-century in 50 balls and looked set for a well-deserved century before falling just four runs short.

In response, Hampshire’s openers made a promising start, putting on 40 runs for the first wicket. However, Wagner’s introduction into the attack proved to be a game-changer. The former New Zealand fast bowler removed both openers and then had Tom Prest caught behind to leave Hampshire reeling at 45 for 3.

Coughlin then took over, dismissing Toby Albert and Felix Organ in quick succession. Ben Brown was also dismissed cheaply, leaving Hampshire in tatters at 69 for six. George Drissell and Joseph Eckland claimed the remaining wickets as Hampshire were bowled out for just 113 in the 27th over.

The victory keeps Durham’s hopes of a top-three finish alive, while Hampshire’s second defeat of the campaign dents their qualification chances.

Ackermann Century Powers Durham to Victory Over Northamptonshire

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.

Jack Leach's Six-Wicket Haul Leads Somerset to Victory Over Durham

Jack Leach’s Six-Wicket Haul Leads Somerset to Victory Over Durham

Somerset’s victory over Durham in the Metro-Bank One-Day Cup was largely due to the exceptional bowling performance of England’s Jack Leach and the crucial innings of Lewis Goldsworthy.

Leach, who has been overlooked by England for recent international matches, proved his worth with a devastating spell of 6 for 26. His slow left-arm bowling troubled Durham’s batsmen throughout the match, exploiting the spin-friendly pitch at the Riverside.

Goldsworthy, on the other hand, played a pivotal role in Somerset’s batting innings. His well-crafted 93 provided the foundation for the team’s total of 241 for 9. Despite losing early wickets, Goldsworthy and George Thomas steadied the innings with a 119-run partnership.

Durham’s chase of 242 began promisingly, but Leach’s brilliance quickly turned the tide. He dismissed Alex Lees, Colin Ackermann, Michael Jones, and Bas de Leede in quick succession, leaving Durham reeling at 48 for 4.

Debutant Charlie Cassell and Goldsworthy’s spin further stifled Durham’s progress, and the home side’s hopes were extinguished when Scott Borthwick was caught by Leach off Andy Umeed. Leach completed his five-wicket haul with the dismissal of Paul Coughlin and added another wicket to his tally when Haydon Mustard was caught in similar fashion.

Somerset’s victory highlights the importance of spin bowling in limited-overs cricket. Leach’s ability to control the game and take wickets at crucial moments proved decisive. Goldsworthy’s innings also showcased the value of a solid foundation in batting.

Worcestershire Triumph Over Durham in Metro Bank One-Day Cup

Worcestershire Triumph Over Durham in Metro Bank One-Day Cup

Worcestershire’s resilience shone through as they secured a resounding 93-run victory over Durham in the Metro Bank One-Day Cup at Visit Worcestershire New Road. Despite a shaky start with the bat, the hosts rallied behind captain Jake Libby’s composed 89 and debutant Fateh Singh’s List A best 60 to post a competitive 260.

Durham’s batting woes began early as Tom Taylor’s opening over yielded three wickets, including skipper Alex Lees. Ben McKinney’s maiden List A half-century provided a glimmer of hope, but Worcestershire’s bowling attack, led by debutant Tom Hinley, proved too formidable.

Hinley, a former Sussex spinner, made an immediate impact, claiming five wickets in his first List A outing. His victims included McKinney, who fell for a well-made 80, and Jonathan Bushnell, who was stumped off a wide.

Libby’s innings was a masterclass in recovery. He anchored the Worcestershire innings, accumulating runs steadily while wickets fell around him. Singh, on loan from Nottinghamshire, played a vital role, contributing 60 runs and forming a crucial partnership with Libby.

Durham’s chase was derailed by Taylor’s early wickets. McKinney and Scott Borthwick attempted to rebuild, but Hinley’s four-wicket burst swung the game decisively in Worcestershire’s favor.

The victory marks Worcestershire’s second consecutive win in the tournament and highlights the depth and resilience of their squad. Libby’s leadership and the contributions of debutants Singh and Hinley have been instrumental in their early success.

Will Rhodes Departs Warwickshire for Durham

Will Rhodes Departs Warwickshire for Durham

Will Rhodes, the former Warwickshire captain who led the team to the County Championship title in 2021, has decided to leave the club at the end of the season. Rhodes, whose contract expires this year, was offered an extension but declined, citing a desire for a new challenge and a more competitive deal. He has since signed a long-term contract with Durham, where he will join an experienced batting lineup.

Rhodes’ departure was confirmed by Warwickshire on Saturday, while Durham has yet to announce his arrival. “It’s not been an easy decision,” Rhodes said. “I’ve spent most of my professional career here at Edgbaston, made life-long friends, and had success on the field. There are memories I will cherish for many, many years.”

“But I feel the time is right to move on and pick up a fresh challenge. Coming to the club as a 22-year-old, I never thought I’d get such an opportunity to captain a great club like Warwickshire. It’s been an unbelievable honour… I’d like to think I’ve made a positive contribution and helped take the club forward.”

Rhodes intends to remain with Warwickshire for the rest of the season to help the team avoid relegation, rather than joining Durham on loan early. “It goes without saying that I will be giving my all to the club for the rest of the season,” he said. “We’ve had a brilliant start in the One Day Cup. Who knows, it would be amazing to go out on a high by winning some silverware.”

After starting his career at Yorkshire, Rhodes has played 86 first-class matches for Warwickshire, averaging 35.85 with the bat and scoring 10 hundreds. He has also featured in 37 T20s and 36 List A games for the club. Rhodes was appointed club captain ahead of the 2020 season and led Warwickshire to their first Championship title since 2012 the following summer. He stepped down at the end of last year to focus on his own form.

Mark Robinson, Warwickshire’s coach, said: “When you work as a head coach with a captain for a number of years, you form a special bond which will always last. So personally, I would like to thank Will for all the support he has given me, as well as the wider club, both as a leader and a performer on the field.”

Durham recently announced the signing of New Zealand’s Neil Wagner for the Championship run-in and the One-Day Cup.

Durham Dominate Lancashire with Lees Century and All-Round Brilliance

Durham Dominate Lancashire with Lees Century and All-Round Brilliance

Durham’s impressive batting display, led by Alex Lees’s century and contributions from Bas de Leede and Colin Ackermann, propelled them to a commanding 57-run victory over Lancashire in the Metro Bank One-Day Cup.

Lees, the Durham captain, anchored the innings with a superb 111 off 126 deliveries, striking eight boundaries and a six. De Leede, the Dutch international, contributed a brisk 72 off 63 balls, while Ackermann chipped in with a quickfire 59 off 33.

Durham’s total of 344 for four was their sixth-highest List A score. They paced their innings expertly, with every batter contributing. Ben McKinney (43) and Michael Jones (41) provided valuable support to Lees.

Lancashire’s chase got off to a promising start, with Josh Bohannon scoring a career-best 147 off 119 balls. However, Ackermann and de Leede proved too strong for the Red Rose batters, sharing six wickets between them.

Ackermann’s off-spin accounted for three wickets, including the crucial dismissal of Keaton Jennings for 44. De Leede, with his seam bowling, claimed three wickets, including the prized scalp of Bohannon.

Bohannon’s valiant effort was in vain as Lancashire were bowled out for 287, falling short of Durham’s target. The win marked a successful start to Durham’s One-Day Cup campaign.

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