Max Holden Century Powers Middlesex Fightback Against Lancashire

Max Holden’s sixth first-class century led a remarkable fightback for Middlesex on Day 3 at Lord’s, putting them in a strong position heading into the final day of their County Championship Division Two clash against Lancashire.

Middlesex, reeling at 7 for 3 after a superb opening spell from Lancashire’s Tom Bailey, were rescued by Holden’s unbeaten 135, following up his half-century from the first innings. His patient and aggressive knock, coupled with crucial partnerships, allowed Middlesex to reach 288 for 6 at stumps, leading Lancashire by 186 runs.

Bailey had been the star with the ball early in the day, claiming 3 for 2 in his opening burst to leave Middlesex in deep trouble. However, despite Bailey’s heroics, Lancashire’s late breakthroughs with the second new ball gave them a slight edge going into Day 4.

The day started with Lancashire adding just six runs to their overnight total before being bowled out for 359, with Marcus Harris, Saturday's centurion, the last to fall for 138. Zafar Gohar finished with 4 for 79.

Middlesex’s response started poorly, with Bailey making an immediate impact. Nathan Fernandes, looking nervous, fell to Bailey after a poor shot, caught by wicketkeeper Matty Hurst. Sam Robson was undone by a superb delivery, caught in front and sent back by umpire Surendiran Shanmugan. Leus du Ploy’s rash shot at a wide delivery brought another catch for Hurst, leaving Middlesex at 7 for 3. Bailey’s fiery spell left the hosts facing the prospect of an early defeat.

At this point, Holden steadied the ship. The former England Lions batter mixed resolute defence with aggressive driving and square cutting to put together a crucial partnership. His stylish 50 came with six boundaries, and he continued to dominate, reaching his century with a beautiful on-drive past the stumps.

Holden found valuable support from Ryan Higgins, who provided a solid resistance with a classy pull shot and two boundaries in an over off Luke Wells. The pair added 106 runs for the fourth wicket, with Higgins making a measured 43. However, Higgins was dismissed by a peach from George Balderson, bowled out for 43.

Ben Geddes, the debutant hailed for his potential, joined Holden at the crease and looked solid despite a nervous start. Geddes showed composure, hitting several boundaries, including a fine off-drive through midwicket. By tea, the pair had added 72 runs, and their stand continued to grow after the break, taking the partnership to 100 runs.

Geddes brought up his half-century with five boundaries, but fell to the second new ball, caught behind off Balderson, though replays suggested he had not made contact with the delivery. Middlesex’s nightwatchman, Blake Cullen, also fell before the close of play, but Holden remains at the crease, determined to guide Middlesex to a competitive total on Day 4.

With a lead of 186 runs and four wickets still in hand, Middlesex will hope to build a defendable total on the final day, while Lancashire will need a quick breakthrough to stay in the contest. The match remains finely poised, with an exciting finish on the cards.