Lancashire star: ‘Table does not lie’

GRAHAM Onions says Lancashire have just not been good enough overall this season as they stare Specsavers County Championship relegation in the face.

The Red Rose head into this week’s final round clash with Hampshire at the Ageas Bowl, starting today, needing close to a miracle to stay up.

They must win with the maximum haul of 24 points and hope Nottinghamshire claim four points or fewer against Somerset at Trent Bridge.

Yorkshire are also in the equation, but they need a maximum of only two points against Worcestershire at New Road to stay ahead of the Red Rose.

Lancashire are currently second bottom with two wins from 13 matches and seven defeats.

Onions, a winter arrival from Durham, has been one of Lancashire’s two standout performers in the Championship alongside new ball partner Tom Bailey.

Onions has taken 57 wickets and Bailey 56. Nobody in Division One has taken more wickets.

Onions, 36, said: “That squad is a good squad. We have some really good players, but we’ve just been outperformed overall.

“Let’s be honest, first division cricket now is very good. The standard is quality.

“There’s no shame in being at the bottom. You shouldn’t be embarrassed by that. But if you are playing good cricket, you can deal with it easier.”

Onions says he has enjoyed his first season at Emirates Old Trafford, both on and off the field.

He was awarded his county cap by cricket director Paul Allott before their last match against Yorkshire – a defeat at Emerald Headingley just under a fortnight ago.

“It was a very proud moment for me,” he said.

“I’ve spent so many years at Durham, but taking a new opportunity this year is something I’ve really enjoyed, trying to help some of the young lads come through with a bit of coaching in there as well.

“But, ultimately, I’m a bad loser. I want to win. So it’s been disappointing. I desperately want to win games for Lancashire.

“I see caps as a huge honour in a player’s career.

“It’s for length of time at a club, like Durham, and for performances that you put in.

“If you play all forms and take wickets, that’s how you get a cap.

“It’s a very proud moment, and all young players here should be looking to get that Red Rose.

“I knew it would be a different challenge to Durham, but I’m very proud to be able to wear that Red Rose.

“It’s a club with a proud tradition.”