ANURAG Singh tuned up for the match against the Australians with a fine unbeaten half-century for Worcestershire in their Second Eleven Championship match with Northants at Kidderminster.

Singh, captaining the side, scored 58 not out to help lift the County to a lead of 107 last night with eight second innings wickets left.

Northants resumed yesterday on 34-2 in reply to Worcestershire's first innings total of 346-5 declared. They eventually declared with a one run lead on 347-8. The County's most successful bowler was off-spinner Andy Gray who claimed 3-77 off 34.3 overs.

Worcestershire closed last night on 106-2 after an opening stand worth 69 between Singh and Nick Boulton (30).