David Bedingham’s outstanding form continued as he registered his third century of the Championship season, steering Durham into a commanding position against Lancashire at Chester-le-Street. Bedingham’s unbeaten 177, combined with Colin Ackermann’s 111 not out, propelled Durham to 367-4 at the close of day two, giving them a lead of 139 runs.
After dismissing Lancashire for a modest 228 in their first innings, Durham’s batters took full advantage. The unbroken partnership of 268 between Bedingham and Ackermann set a new record for Durham’s fifth-wicket stand in first-class cricket.
Lancashire’s highlight of the day was debutant Anderson Phillip’s bowling performance. The Trinidadian pacer claimed two wickets for 86 runs, but his efforts couldn’t prevent Lancashire from falling into a tough situation, as they faced the prospect of a third consecutive Championship defeat.
Earlier in the day, Lancashire’s last four wickets added just 51 runs to their overnight score. Matty Hurst, who top-scored with 90, was run out after a miscommunication with Tom Bailey. Ben Raine completed his five-wicket haul by trapping Phillip lbw for two, finishing with figures of 5-44, his best of the season. Unfortunately for Lancashire, they failed to secure a batting bonus point for the third match in a row.
Durham’s response began shakily against the new Kookaburra ball. Ben McKinney was bowled by Phillip for eight, and captain Scott Borthwick edged a catch off Tom Bailey to Hurst for just nine. Phillip claimed his second wicket when he dismissed Alex Lees for 43, and Ollie Robinson fell to Tom Aspinwall for four, leaving Durham at 99-4.
But from there, Bedingham and Ackermann took control, capitalising on the fading pressure as they flourished under the evening sun. Their dominant partnership leaves Durham firmly in control as Lancashire face an uphill battle to avoid another defeat.