Azhar Ali’s 48th first-class ton almost sealed run-chase for Worcestershire

Worcestershire came agonizingly close to achieving a perfectly timed pursuit of their target but ultimately fell just five runs short in an exhilarating encounter against Sussex at Hove.

Chasing a formidable total of 386 runs within 78 overs at a required run rate of 4.94, Azhar Ali led the charge with a magnificent knock of 101, while Jake Libby built upon his impressive first-innings score of 198 with a solid 97. With Ali still at the crease and only 16 runs needed from the last two overs, Worcestershire appeared to be on the path to victory, holding four wickets in hand.

Ali's century, which marked his 48th in first-class cricket and second of this County season, provided a glimmer of hope for Worcestershire. However, shortly after reaching his century with a well-executed leg glance that resulted in his 15th boundary, Ali was dismissed by Ari Karvelas, who managed to bowl him out. In a crucial moment, Usama Mir was brilliantly caught by Sussex captain Tom Alsop at mid-wicket off the first ball of the final over, leaving Worcestershire requiring eight runs for victory.

Nathan McAndrew showed remarkable composure and skill, conceding only three runs from the following five deliveries. This left Joe Leach with the opportunity to seal the game with a six off the last ball. Unfortunately for Worcestershire, Leach failed to connect, and the match between the second and third-placed teams in Division Two of the LV= County Championship concluded in a draw. Worcestershire finished their innings on 381 for 8, falling agonizingly short of their target.

Earlier in the first innings, Azhar had scored 25 from 62 balls, whereas Usama’s bowling figures for Worcestershire were 1/66 and 1/107 in first and second innings respectively.