Worcestershire 237 and 70-2

Derbyshire 578-5 (du Plooy 238*, Madsen 143, Dal 141*)

Derbyshire lead by 271 runs

A magnificent double century from Leus du Plooy and another fine century from Anuj Dal put Derbyshire into a strong position ahead of the final day at Worcester, today.

I saw some of the partnership yesterday afternoon, and it was batting of the highest calibre. Had they continued I am sure that George Davidson’s record innings of 274 would have been in danger, as the skipper looked in no trouble at all. Nor did Dal, who became only the third Derbyshire player to twice score a century and take five wickets in an innings in a match.

The batting of du Plooy has gone on to a new level in recent weeks and international cricket, either for South Africa or England, looks within his compass. He is very organised, busy and devastating at the crease and looks a serious player.

Meanwhile Dal returned to the form that made him such a fine player last season. One or two had written him off, but he is simply too good a cricketer for any dip in form to be more than transient. Sometimes I think people underestimate how much an injury can affect a player and the side strain that cost him cricket this summer has been a major factor in his drop in statistics. 

He is back with bat and ball and adds a lot to the side in that key position at number seven. 

Two stands in excess of 250 isn’t that common in a first-class innings and well done to the players concerned for that feat 

The weather cost Derbyshire the opportunity for further inroads into the home side’s second innings, but they will be hopeful, as I am, that a full day today might allow them to take the eight wickets required to seal a first 4 day win of the season.

Fingers crossed!