Worcestershire opener Daryl Mitchell has quite rightly received plenty of plaudits for his match-winning century against Nottinghamshire at Trent Bridge.
But the 33-year-old was quick to pay tribute to and highlight the significance of the part played by his opening partner George Rhodes in the eight wicket win.
Rhodes was promoted up the order with Brett D’Oliveira having suffered a slight shoulder aggravation and batting number five in his only innings.
It was a real test for the gritty all-rounder against a quality attack and on a wicket assisting the seamers particularly with the new ball.
But Rhodes got his head down and grafted away in aiding Mitchell in stands of 38 and 57 which were worthy efforts in the context of a low-scoring game.
He made 32 in the first innings before being fifth out and 21 in the second – knocks which were of far more value to the team than others in different circumstances on a different day of greater numerical value.
Mitchell said: “I thought George was absolutely outstanding throughout the game, in both innings really.
“It’s a tough job at the top of the order and he has not done it before this season at first team level.
“To play the way he did, and getting two vital 20s and 30s, but more importantly getting the shine off the new ball and taking time out of the game and batting overs, was crucial.
“It makes it easier for the guys coming in down below. He deserves a lot of credit.”
*Worcestershire Seconds will take on Bangladesh Academy in a 50 over match at Wolverhampton CC on Thursday, September 14 (11am start).
The final day of the Seconds four-day match with Surrey Seconds at Kidderminster was washed out.
