North close to defeat despite Whaley effort

NORTHUMBERLAND are heading for a rare defeat in the Minor Counties Championship, despite heroics from opener Matt Whaley.

Bowled out for just 152 in reply to Suffolk’s 424-4, North were heading for an innings defeat inside two days after being made to follow on.

Whaley, however, dug in at one end after Northumberland had slumped to 16-3 in their second innings.

It took the Hetton Lyons batsman almost four hours to complete his half-century as Suffolk dominated again.

Northumberland lost 13 wickets on the second day, the unbroken stand for the ninth wicket between Whaley and Ollie McGee worth 56 runs.

Whaley struck 16 boundaries, professional Jacques du Toit (pictured) run out for 43 after clubbing six fours and two sixes.

Trailing by a massive 272 runs after the first innings, It was a frustrating way for the South African to lose his wicket.

Whaley and new wicket-keeper Brad Yates put on 62 for the fifth wicket, Yates bowled by Ben Reece for 32 - North closing on 227-8.

Earlier in the day Alex Simpson struck an unbeaten 44 on his Northumberland debut but managed only eight on his second visit to the crease.

Suffolk seamer Mark Comber has match figures of 9-89, Suffolk, still ahead by 45 runs, looking to wrap up victory on the morning session of the final day. ■■FORMER England bowler Matthew Hoggard has backed leg-spinner Adil Rashid to have an impact in the upcoming Test series against South Africa.

The Yorkshireman has often struggled with control of the ball during long spells and his consistency has counted against him.

However, following an impressive showing in the ICC Champions Trophy, Hoggard thinks Rashid could have a big part to play in the upcoming Test series against the Proteas.

The former Yorkshire and England quickie said: “If the weather stays like this, the spinners will have a part to play. He has a chance and gives England a variety and something different.”