Promotion will be the cherry on top
Chris Oldnall meets the Worcestershire batsman with his sights set on more than just runs
Daryl Mitchell wants Worcestershire to “put the icing on the cake” in his century-laced season by sealing promotion – but it was Neil Dexter who had the appetite for a tasty 114 for Leicestershire at New Road.
Opener Mitchell has been a key figure in his side’s County Championship campaign and went into this game on the back of an excellent 139 not out against Division Two leaders Nottinghamshire the previous week.
It was his sixth hundred of the season which contributed to a super eight wicket win at Trent Bridge – and put Worcestershire in high spirits to face bottom-placed Leicestershire, who made a well earned 404 in their first innings following Dexter’s impressive display.
Although unable to add to his tally of centuries when the hosts replied, Mitchell made a valuable 58 and was expertly backed up by his opening partner Brett D’Oliveira, who confidently made his way into three figures.
In-form Mitchell said: “If you’d asked for us to be in the position we’re in in the table at the start of play in this match we’d have snapped your hands off. We’d won seven matches out of 12 which is fantastic and now it’s all about putting the icing on the cake and making sure of promotion first and foremost.
“If you’re in Division Two promotion is the only target you’ve got really at the start of the season and if we can do it, it would be a goal accomplished and something very pleasing. It would be great for the club going forward.”
Mitchell, who went into this game having already made 1,000 Championship runs this summer, admits to being “very pleased” with his century-making efforts this summer.
The Worcestershire-born batsman said: “It’s been a bit feast and famine really. I’ve had quite a few low scores as well, but fortunately when I’ve managed to get in and over the new ball I’ve cashed in pretty well.”
Mitchell has not had the responsibility of captaincy this season after being replaced by Joe Leach at the end of last term following six years in the role.
Has it helped him not having the