Yorkshire and Middlesex Draw High-Scoring Clash, Promotion Race Heats Up

Yorkshire and Middlesex Draw High-Scoring Clash, Promotion Race Heats Up

Yorkshire and Middlesex played out a high-scoring draw in their Vitality County Championship clash at Headingley, with both teams eyeing promotion to Division One in 2025.

Yorkshire declared their first innings on 601 for 6, with Harry Hill (169*) and Jonny Bairstow (160) leading the charge. Middlesex responded with 522, thanks to centuries from Ryan Higgins (155) and Sam Robson (108).

Dom Bess was the standout performer for Yorkshire, taking 7 for 179 in Middlesex’s first innings. The off-spinner bowled a marathon 70.4 overs, showcasing his endurance and skill.

Yorkshire’s second innings began shortly before lunch, with a lead of 79. They reached 150 for 2 from 35 overs before bad light stopped play. Adam Lyth (62) and James Wharton (50*) were at the crease, ensuring Yorkshire took 13 points from the draw. Middlesex earned 11 points.

Despite the high-scoring nature of the match, only two batters across both sides failed to reach double figures. The placid pitch made it difficult for bowlers to make inroads, with the scoring rate remaining below three runs per over.

Yorkshire and Middlesex remain in contention for promotion, with just one point separating them in the Division Two standings. They will battle it out with leaders Sussex for the two top-flight places available in 2025.