NORTHAMPTON — Joe Cracknell’s unbeaten century spearheaded Middlesex’s recovery on day one of their County Championship clash against Northamptonshire at Wantage Road, as the visitors fought back from early setbacks to finish on a competitive 298/6.
The 24-year-old right-hander, playing just his 12th first-class match, struck a composed 106* off 203 balls, rescuing Middlesex after they had slumped to 98/4 in the morning session. Cracknell’s maiden Championship hundred, featuring 14 boundaries, anchored crucial partnerships with Ryan Higgins (47) and Luke Hollman (56) to tilt the momentum back in Middlesex’s favor.
Early Struggles for Middlesex
Northamptonshire’s seamers exploited helpful early conditions after Middlesex opted to bat first. Ben Sanderson (2/52) and Jack White (1/49) struck early blows, removing openers Mark Stoneman (22) and Sam Robson (18) inside the first hour. The hosts maintained pressure as Middlesex’s middle order faltered:
- Max Holden (9) edged behind off Sanderson
- Stephen Eskinazi (12) fell lbw to White
At 98/4, Northants appeared in control, but Cracknell’s resilience shifted the narrative. "The pitch had a bit in it early on, but I backed myself to play straight and wait for the bad balls," Cracknell said at stumps.
Cracknell’s Gritty Stand
Cracknell, who joined Middlesex from Oxford University in 2022, showcased his growing maturity. He rebuilt alongside Higgins in a 78-run fifth-wicket stand, surviving a testing spell from Northants’ overseas quick, Chris Tremain (1/64). Higgins fell just short of a fifty, nicking behind off Rob Keogh’s part-time spin, but Hollman’s aggressive 56 off 72 balls injected momentum.
The pair added 103 for the sixth wicket, with Hollman striking three sixes before holing out to midwicket. "Luke’s intent took the pressure off me," Cracknell noted. "Once the ball got older, it became easier to score."
Northants’ Missed Opportunities
Northamptonshire rued dropped chances, with Cracknell put down twice—on 42 and 87—by wicketkeeper Lewis McManus. Captain Luke Procter admitted, "We let them off the hook. Credit to Joe, but we should’ve been chasing 200, not 300."
Day Two Outlook
With Middlesex’s tail still to come, Northants will aim to wrap up the innings quickly. However, Cracknell’s presence looms large. "I want to push us past 350," he said, eyeing a decisive first-innings total.
The match remains finely poised, but Cracknell’s ton has given Middlesex the upper hand after a shaky start. His innings, blending patience with calculated aggression, underscored his potential as a future mainstay for the London side.