Worcestershire 180 (Waite 60, van Beek 48, Phillip 5-65, Bailey 3-22) and 0 for 0 lead Lancashire 177 (Waite 3-38) by three runs
In a crucial match in the Vitality County Championship, Matthew Waite’s all-round heroics helped Worcestershire secure a narrow three-run lead over Lancashire on the third day at Visit Worcestershire New Road.
Waite starred with both bat and ball, scoring a crucial 60 runs to guide Worcestershire to 180 in their first innings, before claiming 3 for 38 to dismiss Lancashire for 177. The result confirmed Lancashire’s relegation from Division One, as their poor run of form continued following their runner-up finish in 2022 and fourth-place finish last year.
Resuming on 119 for 7, Worcestershire found an unlikely savior in Waite, who smashed a quick-fire 60 off just 37 balls, including four sixes and two fours. His partnership of 84 runs with Logan van Beek (48) proved vital in helping the home side post a respectable total.
“It was a crucial knock from Waite to help us post a decent total,” said Worcestershire’s coach.
In response, Lancashire’s batting lineup crumbled, with Waite leading the way with the ball as well. The visitors were bowled out for 177, with Waite’s three-wicket haul compounding their misery. Relegation rivals Nottinghamshire and Warwickshire’s results also spelled the end of Lancashire’s top-flight status this season.
Worcestershire, who had already secured their own safety, will now look to finish the campaign strongly and secure a top-six finish, while Lancashire’s rapid fall from grace continues.
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