Already 2013 is turning into a nightmare for Somerset, with a second successive heavy defeat. This week's beneficiaries Sussex displaced Middlesex from the top position in the County Championship. At Horsham Marcus Trescothick's men could muster only 182 runs across both innings, with Steve Magoffin returning stupendous match statistics of 12-31, including a career-best 8-20 on the first morning.
With a near washout on day one, it was remarkable that Durham and Middlesex almost created a result at Chester-le-Street. Graeme Onions was the pick of the bowlers while Steve Borthwick, newly converted number three batsman for Durham, collected a couple of half-centuries. However, the draw meant both counties lost ground to Sussex.
In Division Two, it was also a great week for thirty-something seam bowlers. Worcestershire advanced to fourth after 2013 Wisden Cricketer of the Year Alan Richardson picked up twelve Gloucestershire wickets. Moeen Ali's century also contributed to a nine-wicket victory. It was a good week not to be playing, with the weather forcing the other games to be drawn. Northants rested yet still remain 25 points clear of the rest. Nearest challengers Essex were second-best for much of their home tie against Kent, for whom Darren Stevens combined 136 runs with a 4-36.
Lancashire stand on equal points with Essex after taking eight points in Hampshire. Andrea Agathangelou achieved his first Championship century for the Red Roses then, as the match petered out on the last day, Gareth Cross and Steven Cross each made three figures, too. The veteran bowler scenario was also maintained by Glen Chapple's 5-55. In the remaining fixture, Glamorgan set up a 300-run first innings lead over Leicestershire. Jim Allenby (138 not out) and Michael Hogan (4-25) were the top performers on the opening days before the rain took charge.
Leicestershire are still flirting with bottom placing, just ahead of Kent, but at least they brought off an impressive run chase to inflict a first YB40 defeat of Somerset this weekend. Thye need to take confidence from that result as they prepare for an important four-day clash with Kent. At the other end of the table, Hampshire need to win at Northampton to stay in touch with their opponents in the promotion race.
In Division One, Sussex can establish a healthy lead should they overcome Nottinghamshire at Hove, while Yorkshire must fancy their chances in Taunton. Somerset have won some famous victories there against the Tykes in recent seasons but Tres and co must rediscover their once-dominant batting form if they are to record a first Championship triumph of 2013. Derbyshire and Surrey meet in a battle at the bottom. Whoever wins will probably overtake Somerset but a draw wil do neither side a favour.
