An unbeaten partnership of 98 from George Bartlett and Lewis Gregory on Sunday sealed a four-wicket victory that had seemed impossible when Somerset crashed to 89 for nine in their first innings in reply to Middlesex’s 313. Then, after Marchant de Lange and Jack Leach had lifted Somerset to the relative riches of 172, Middlesex again looked in control when they led by 254 with seven second innings wickets in hand. Somerset made an incredible start to their bid to claim a first title in their win over MiddlesexAnd when Somerset slipped to 187 for six chasing 285, Middlesex were once again strong favourites. And there was controversy at Grace Road, where Leicestershire complained to the ECB about what they saw as unacceptable behaviour from Hampshire in their comprehensive victory by an innings and 105 runs. The Royals will this week decide with England whether Archer, who has been beset by injury problems, can play any part in this year’s tournament.

Source: The Nation April 11, 2021 22:52 UTC