Half centuries from Matt Critchley, Harvey Hosein and Harry Podmore has put Derbyshire in a commanding position going into the final day at Hove.
It was a collective effort by the Derbyshire batsmen who batted throughout the day to close on 322-8 and a lead of 389 runs, with one day left to play.
Critchley (51), Hosein (52) and Podmore (66 not out) – who struck his maiden first-class half-century – all hit fifties as Derbyshire dominated with the bat to set up the chance for victory tomorrow.
Derbyshire’s run rate never got much above four an over throughout the day but, having resumed with a lead of 98 and nine wickets in hand, they did not need to take risks.
Ben Slater (45) and Wayne Madsen (31) shared a 76-run partnership for the second wicket in the morning session, before both fell just before the lunch break.
Alex Hughes (14) was dismissed shortly after, but Critchley, Hosein and Podmore who followed all passed fifty to put their side on top.
Critchley completed an extremely important and eye catching half century, doing so from 64 balls, hitting five fours, before he was gone in the next over for 51.
Hosein batted fluently, following on from his 38 not out in the first innings, to strike 52, his sixth half-century of his career, and when he fell with the score on 252-6, Derbyshire had built a sizeable lead of 319.
Middlesex loanee Harry Podmore, whose previous highest score was 21, then completed a half-century of his own before ending unbeaten on 66 from 117 balls. He hit five fours and one six.
Davis batted well alongside Podmore, striking a career best 25 before he was caught by Robinson in the penultimate over of the day.
Derbyshire closed the day with a 389 lead and will be looking to secure their second Specsavers County Championship victory of the season on the final day.
Derbyshire’s final home game is vs Kent at Chesterfield. Save £4 by purchasing your matchday tickets in advance. While further discounts are available for groups of 10 or more. Buy online or call 01332 388 101.
