Alex Hughes struck an unbeaten double century as Derbyshire Second XI declared on 498-9 to take control of the Second XI Championship match versus Durham.
Hughes began the day on 148 and attacked the Durham bowling, hitting four sixes, to go through to the first double-century of his professional career.
After the declaration came, Matt Critchley returned 3-43 and Shiv Thakor 2-19 to reduce the visitors to 246-7 at the close of play on Day Two at Belper Meadows, still 252 runs behind.
On Day One, Hughes had shared century stands with both Thakor (108) and Harvey Hosein (35) but lost a couple of partners early on Day Two. That did not stop Derbyshire’s skipper completing his double-century, eventually deciding to declare with the score on 498-9, having scored 216 not out from 289 balls himself.
Durham’s opening pair of Graham and Jack Clark put on 101 for the first wicket to frustrate the Derbyshire attack initially but Thakor removed both Clarks for 56 and 47 respectively in quick succession.
Harry White then had Stuart Poynter lbw before a three-wicket burst for 18-year old leg-spinner Critchley reduced Durham from 143-3 to 167-6.
The final wicket to fall on Day Two went to Hughes when John Bousfield was adjudged lbw to leave Durham 246-7 at the close.
