Durham’s Day Two performance against Yorkshire in the County Championship showcased the remarkable talents of opener Alex Lees and fellow batsman Emilio Gay. The dynamic pair guided their team to a huge lead. At the same time, they became the first pair to pass 382 runs for the second wicket by setting a new record against Yorkshire.
Alex Lees hasn’t appeared in an England shirt since 2022. He performed magnificently with the bat to add runs, put pressure back on the opposition and be a three dimensional player full of dynamism as a player. Nonetheless at 32 years of age, he’s a strong candidate to make future England call-ups at this point. He’s been often touted as a future candidate for the full national team. His experience and skill were at their best on this occasion as he produced a masterclass to crush his old county of Yorkshire.
Batting conditions were ideal, enabling Lees and Gay to take advantage of poor bowling on offer for most of the day. Lees demonstrated resilience on the defensive and attacking side of the wicket, as he displayed his shotmaking ability and mastery of his game. He particularly shone in an over by Matthew Revis, striking four boundaries that contributed to a costly 19 runs for the bowler. It was an aggressive welcome that would carry through the rest of the first frame.
Lees brought up his century from only 126 deliveries—a demonstratively calm temperament and masterclass in efficiency. And he built on this very strong foundation throughout the day. In the end, as rain ruined the last day’s play, he earned a magnificent 148 not out off 194 balls. His close collaboration with Gay turned out to be crucial. Together, they created an impenetrable 242-run partnership, breaking the then-record for a second-wicket stand in first-class matches versus Yorkshire.
Emilio Gay helped set the tone with his powerful run in this one-sided match. His supporting ability to load Lees and score at will on the other side kept Durham’s momentum going all day. As a combined force, they made sure that Durham really laid down their marker in the fixture and left Yorkshire with too little room to manoeuvre.
This performance is especially important for Lees, who has been under intense pressure since his most recent Test appearance. His persistent success at the county level only solidifies his candidacy as a member of England’s national team. As debate about possible team choices crescendo, showings like the one this evening will surely thrust him back into the mix.
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