Jake Libby century guides Worcestershire to draw with Derbyshire

The opener had struggled in the early games of the season but found his stride on the final day of the match to guide The Pears to a draw against the still unbeaten Derbyshire outfit.

He was ably joined by Azhar Ali, who himself played a part in helping Libby reach his century whilst also keeping it tight with the bat.

He scored another half century and put on a second wicket stand of 164 with Libby as the pair managed to guide Worcestershire through the day.

Azhar was given LBW in the afternoon session but it was to be the only wicket of the day as Jack Haynes and Libby defended their way to tea before both sides shook hands.

At the end of day three, Derbyshire were able to total 565-8 declared and secure a first innings lead of 197, with Anuj Dal hitting a career best 114 not out.

Worcestershire were left 16 overs to bat at the tail-end of the day and reached 59 for the loss of Ed Pollock.

The final day started with Azhar Ali and Jake Libby at the crease and they began to chip into the Derbyshire lead with a draw the best and most realistic chance the visitors had.

Libby reached his half century before lunch having faced 98 deliveries.

After the break, his partner Azhar continued his good form to reach a third 50 in a row as the partnership continued to blossom.

They reached a 150-run partnership in the afternoon session but just before they ticked over the 200-run mark, Azhar’s innings ended as he was trapped LBW by Alex Thompson.

But Libby was not going anywhere and he got to his century for the first time this season from 185 balls.

Jack Haynes (9*), who himself reached a ton in the first innings, came in with the intention to block and defend his stumps as much as possible.

Libby was of the same mind and having got to 100, scored just five runs in the next 100 deliveries before the captains shook hands and settled for a draw.