For all of Staffordshire’s run-chase heroics in their victory over Lincolnshire, there was one individual landmark which might have slipped slightly under the radar.
Matt Morris’ unbeaten century and 87 not out from stand-in captain Michael Hill helped Staffordshire to overhaul their 292-run target at Checkley – one of the county’s highest successful chases.
There were plenty of smiles and high fives when the seven-wicket win was achieved – but one player had been wearing a broad grin since the end of day one.
Young seamer Sam Atkinson claimed his maiden NCCA five-wicket haul by taking 5-70 in Lincolnshire’s first innings.
The dismissal of Mark Footitt, which wrapped up Lincs’ knock for 246, saw him reach the landmark in his eighth Championship appearance for the county.
“It was a massive moment for me. To get a five-wicket haul and help Staffs to win was a great feeling,” said Atkinson, who then added three scalps in Lincolnshire’s second dig.
“There was a lot of relief and excitement taking my fifth wicket. When the last wicket fell it was great to celebrate with the lads.
“This gives me a lot of confidence going in to the next game. It is something I know I can do. I will be working hard putting in performances and hopefully this will be the first of many.”
‘Lead role’
Atkinson was handed the new ball by skipper Hill, alongside Liam Hurt, for the Lincs clash.
That was partly due to the absence of Rory Haydon, who was unavailable after signing a contract with Derbyshire for the Metro Bank white-ball competition.
Atkinson, aged 20, knows that his impact on the Staffordshire side isn’t just limited to matters with the ball.
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He showed his ability with the bat last summer on the NCCA circuit – and is keen to ensure that particular string remains a firm part of his bow.
“Rory is a top lad and a great bowler. We are all buzzing for him to get his opportunity with Derbyshire,” added Atkinson.
“It’s definitely a chance for me to step up and keep putting in performances.
“I know my role is to contribute when needed and I’m making sure I am ready to score some crucial runs for the team.”
‘Recovery mission’
Atkinson’s contribution was particularly key as Staffordshire battled back after a disappointing first day.
After skittling Lincs, Staffordshire slumped to 159-8 when stumps were drawn.
Hill’s 93 not out helped to limit the first-innings deficit to just 28 runs before Lincs were bowled out for 263 second time around to set up the home side’s chase.
“I thought we bowled really well on the first day. However the batting let us down as we didn’t perform to our potential,” explained Atkinson.
“However, we still had Hilly at the crease at the end of the day meaning we were still in the battle.
“The recovery was brilliant. We showed some real fight and a lot of character as a team.
“Everyone chipped in and we all pulled together to get us back into a winning position. It was a team effort and it showed what we are made of when we are all switched on.”
‘Number one target’
The victory put Staffordshire top of the Division One East table after banking 21 points.
And they continue their title defence with a trip to Copdock this weekend to take on Suffolk.
Atkinson says the players travel in good heart following that success, but need to be on their A game to back that up in East Anglia.
“Starting with a win gives us a huge confidence boost and some great momentum for the rest of the campaign,” said Atkinson.
“We can’t get complacent. Suffolk will be a tough challenge and we’ll need to be at our best to get a result.”
Staffordshire name side for NCCA Championship trip to Suffolk
The Championship is now Staffs’ sole focus for the rest of the summer after they exited the Twenty20 Cup last weekend.
Staffordshire lost to Norfolk and Herefordshire in the Super 12s stage at Moddershall & Oulton in rain-reduced encounters.
“It was a very frustrating day. We didn’t play to our best ability even though there were positives from the bowling display defending low scores,” added Atkinson, who was playing on his home ground.
“It definitely gives us extra motivation (for the three dayers). The Championship is our number one focus now. It gives us a clear goal and extra push to give everything we’ve got in every game.”
Main image: Staffordshire seamer Sam Atkinson is looking to build on his five-wicket haul against Lincolnshire. Picture: David Peters
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