MANCHESTER — Lancashire’s Australian off-spinner Chris Green delivered a career-best performance, taking 6-82 to put Glamorgan in a spin on the opening day of their County Championship clash at Emirates Old Trafford. Glamorgan struggled to 260-8 at stumps, with Kiran Carlson (77) and Asa Tribe (61) offering resistance amid Green’s dominance.
Green’s Masterclass Derails Glamorgan
Green, the 30-year-old Sydney-born spinner, exploited a turning pitch to perfection, claiming his first five-wicket haul in first-class cricket. His figures of 6-82 surpassed his previous best of 4-56, marking a standout performance in Lancashire’s push for victory. "It’s always special to contribute like this, especially in conditions that suited my style of bowling," Green said post-match.
Glamorgan’s top order faltered early, with Green removing opener Eddie Byrom (12) and Marnus Labuschagne (9) in quick succession. The visitors slumped to 45-3 before Carlson and Tribe steadied the ship with a 112-run partnership. However, Green returned to break the stand, trapping Carlson lbw with a sharp turner.
Key Moments of the Day
- Green’s early breakthroughs: Dismissed Byrom and Labuschagne in his opening spell.
- Carlson’s resistance: The Glamorgan captain top-scored with 77 before falling to Green.
- Tribe’s fighting knock: The 22-year-old notched his second first-class fifty.
- Late strikes: Green removed Tribe and James Harris (0) in the final session.
Carlson and Tribe Shine Amid Collapse
Kiran Carlson’s 77 off 112 balls, including 10 fours and a six, was the backbone of Glamorgan’s innings. His partnership with Tribe, who scored a gritty 61, provided hope before Green’s intervention. "We fought hard, but Green was exceptional today. The pitch offered turn, and he exploited it brilliantly," Carlson admitted.
Tribe, playing just his fifth first-class match, showed maturity beyond his years. His 61 came off 149 deliveries, featuring seven boundaries. However, Green’s persistence paid off as he deceived Tribe with a flighted delivery, edging to slip.
Lancashire’s Bowling Unit Steps Up
While Green stole the headlines, Lancashire’s seamers provided crucial support. Tom Bailey (1-42) and Will Williams (1-38) kept the pressure on, with Bailey removing Sam Northeast (18) early. "It was a collective effort. The seamers built pressure, and Green capitalised," said Lancashire captain Keaton Jennings.
Glamorgan’s lower order, led by Chris Cooke (28*), scrambled to 260-8 by stumps. Cooke and Mason Crane (6*) will resume on Day 2, hoping to push past 300. However, Lancashire will back themselves to wrap up the innings quickly and seize control.
What’s Next?
With Glamorgan still 40 runs short of a batting point, Lancashire will aim to dismiss them early and build a substantial first-innings lead. Green’s form bodes well for the hosts, who are eyeing their second win of the season. "We’ve got a chance to take a big lead here. The pitch will keep turning, so our spinners will be key," Green added.
Glamorgan, meanwhile, will rely on their bowlers to strike early when Lancashire bat. Spinners Crane and Andy Gorvin will need to replicate Green’s impact to keep their side in the contest.
Conclusion
Chris Green’s career-best figures have put Lancashire in a commanding position. Glamorgan’s fightback, led by Carlson and Tribe, kept them afloat, but Green’s mastery with the ball has tilted the balance firmly in Lancashire’s favour. Day 2 promises more spin-dominated action as both teams battle for supremacy.