Middlesex moved into a commanding position on a difficult Day Two for Derbyshire’s bowlers in the Second XI friendly at Denby.
Sam Robson struck 122 on the second day, while Max Holden is unbeaten on 151 heading into the third morning, with Middlesex 351-4, leading by 132.
Dustin Melton (2-40) was the pick of the bowlers on a frustrating day for Derbyshire against a strong side, before bad light put an end to the day’s play.
The visitors resumed on 13-0, but it was Derbyshire who made the stronger start when James Taylor bowled Nick Gubbins for 10, before Martin Andersson (5) was caught by Harvey Hosein off Hutchinson soon after.
The 166-run third-wicket partnership between Robson and Holden saw Middlesex move into the lead, as the former brought up his century in 136 balls, including 17 fours and two sixes.
Melton picked up his first wicket when he trapped Robson (122) lbw, and he repeated the trick to dismiss Joe Cracknell (18).
That would be the last wicket Derbyshire picked up, as Holden reached 150 in 207 balls, including 22 fours and two sixes shortly before bad light brought an end to proceedings on Day Two.
The visitors will resume on Day Three 351-4, leading by 132 with Holden unbeaten on 151 and Jack Davies not out on 26.
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