Second XI: Hughes hits 231 against Northamptonshire

Alex Hughes struck an unbeaten 231 as Derbyshire Second XI drew their opening Second XI Championship game against Northamptonshire. 

Hughes hit 25 fours and two sixes in a brilliant knock, while there were also centuries for Tom Wood (138) and Justin Broad (120) at The County Ground, Northampton.

Emilio Gay (189) and Saif Zaib (140) gave the hosts a great start, as Northamptonshire declared on 525-4, with Luke Proctor (70) and Richard Levi (55 not out) also making half-centuries.

Derbyshire initially struggled in their response, and found themselves 154-8, before Nils Priestley (74) and Jonny Lawrence (29) reduced the deficit with a 62-run partnership, although the visitors would not avoid the follow-on against a strong attack, all out for 232.

The second innings would prove more fruitful for Derbyshire, as Hughes and Wood put on 226-run stand for the second-wicket, as the latter reached his century in 166 balls, including 16 fours.

He added a further 38 runs to his own total before being dismissed, bringing Broad to the crease to begin another mammoth partnership (259) with Hughes.

The experienced all-rounder brought up a magnificent double-hundred in 329 balls, while Broad reached three-figures in 133 deliveries, 12 of which were boundaries.

After declaring on 535-3, Derbyshire would bowl a further 13 overs, with George Scrimshaw claiming the final wicket of the match before the captains shook hands to confirm a draw.

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