David Lloyd delivered a standout performance for Derbyshire during their recent match against Middlesex, scoring 93 runs from 197 balls. This innings represents Lloyd’s top score since September of 2022. It highlights his incredible rebound to form after struggling in the season’s early going. Before this match, his highest score for Derbyshire had been 73, a figure he obliterated in this innings.
Lloyd came through in the clutch at a pivotal point of the match. After competing in his first high school game, for which he had previously thrown only 76 innings all spring combined, he was under the pressure to perform. His contributions went a long way in shoring up Derbyshire’s batting order and were a much-welcomed shot of adrenaline.
The game developed with Lloyd putting on a valuable second-wicket partnership of 156 runs with opening batter Harry Came. This collaboration proved crucial, enabling Derbyshire to recover from a shaky start and develop a firm base. Their partnership of 85 from 182 balls was all about the pair’s poise in adversity – a mature, controlled stand against a powerful and disciplined Middlesex bowling attack.
During his first thirty runs scored, Lloyd faced critical adversity. He survived 73 dot balls in the first hour alone! He hit his stride after pulling and cutting Ryan Higgins for back-to-back fours. This tempestuous and provocative drama let off some of that growing steam. Lloyd again escaped a tight spot when he slipped Zahar Gohar via Higgins, who definitely should’ve had the chance. Undeterred, Lloyd was determined to maintain his increasing score.
As the ODI progressed, Lloyd exhibited an admirable balance of patience and pugnacity. He lost track of time and space and instead yanked a short ball from Higgins. That turn of fate would see the unofficial end of his innings. Given the context of Derbyshire’s overall performance and their ability to recover from a terrible start to the season, his contribution was transformational.
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