Wells’ performance on the pitch was just as impressive off of it. He owned the game, scoring 141 runs to finally triumph, and celebrated the milestone with his 27th first-class century. This century was Wells’ ninth for Lancashire, to emphasize just how impactful Wells has been in his short time with the Red Rose. Lancashire ended the day’s play on 250-5, relatively unscathed after losing just the five wickets. This record of stunning achievement leaves them well positioned to continue that work.
Continuing after the break with Wells now 40, he soon found his half-century from 92 balls, showing restraint and finesse. He illustrated his knack for constructing an innings, sharing in a big stand with Matty Hurst. Hurst had a big hand in that combined effort, batting a more than respectable 51. As a pair they put on 121 runs in tandem and their run-rate of 2.6 was deceptively panic-free.
Lancashire did themselves no favours early on, losing their three most dangerous players of the innings in quick succession. Keaton Jennings, out to Blair Tickner for 2, caught at second slip by Wayne Madsen. Josh Bohannon was next to go, caught by wicketkeeper Brooke Guest after scoring just 3 runs. Despite these setbacks, Marcus Harris managed to make a respectable 45 runs off 212 balls, striking 13 fours before he was dismissed.
Ben Aitchison really was a bright spot on the understandable chaos that ensued as a top performer for the other side. He ended the day with phenomenal figures of 3 for 51. Blair Tickner was impressive with the ball, picking up 2/59. With an unrelenting line, length and accuracy, he was a constant threat to the Lancashire batsman all day long.
As that match unfolds, undeniably, all eyes will be on Wells and this new opportunity to make the most out of his newfound success. With good partnerships and disciplined batting techniques, Lancashire will look to post an imposing total in the first innings over the next few days.
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