Dutchman Kervezee hits three figures in Pears first win

Alexei Kervezee hit a fine century on Thursday as Worcestershire battled to break Nottinghamshire’s grip on their County Championship match and claim what would be a first win of the season. The champions had earlier pushed on from their overnight 291-8 to post 382 for a lead of 67, with all-rounder Paul Franks top-scoring with 82 as he guided the tail to earn two further batting points.

Alan Richardson claimed figures of 5-98, but Worcestershire’s spirits were further dampened after lunch when they lost their first four wickets for 56. At that stage, Worcestershire still needed 11 more runs to make Notts bat again. However, Kervezee showed real class to compile his fourth first-class hundred and they closed on 256-5 with a lead of 189.

The Dutch international finished the day on 123 not out from 176 balls, having hit 18 fours and a magnificent straight six to bring up three figures, while partner Gareth Andrew was unbeaten on 56.

Andrew himself hit eight fours and a six, and if Worcestershire can extend their lead past 250 then Nottinghamshire will face a difficult chase on the final day.