Franklin and Harris secure Middlesex draw

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Middlesex 309 & 362-7 dec drew with Worcestershire 385 & 39-1
(Middlesex 10 pts, Worcestershire 12 pts)

Captain James Franklin hit an unbeaten 91 and anchored a stubborn middle order to guide Middlesex to a draw on the final day at Uxbridge.

The New Zealander, who scored 135 in the first innings, shared in century stands with Joe Burns (87) and James Harris (59 not out) at times when the visitors threatened a shot at victory.

With Middlesex resuming on 140-3, and ahead by 64, Worcestershire required quick wickets to get themselves into a winning position and their hopes were raised when Moeen Ali bowled Paul Stirling in the third over.

That brought Franklin to the crease and he and Burns put on 103 to further stretch the home side’s lead. However, with lunch just five minutes away, Burns was caught in the deep – and two more quick wickets shortly after the interval briefly had Middlesex wobbling.

At that point they were only 183 ahead and any further breakthroughs would have set up an interesting run chase.

But Franklin’s outstanding match continued as he batted with Harris for another 30 overs, beyond tea, to put Worcestershire well out of sight.

He then declared to give his team time to bowl 11 overs of spin – including rare outings with the ball for Sam Robson and Nick Compton – so as not to be penalised for a slow over rate.

Ollie Rayner took the wicket of Richard Oliver before the teams shook hands.

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