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.
