DERBYSHIRE invited Yorkshire to have first use of the normally batsmen friendly Stamford Bridge wicket when their three-day Second XI game began yesterday. And how they were made to regret that decision.

Openers Scott Richardson and Chris Taylor, both keen to regain a place in the County Championship side, took complete command and put on a first wicket partnership of 241.

Both then sacrificed their wickets in a bid for quick runs and a possible declaration, Richardson falling for 125 and Taylor for 117. Vic Craven added a rapid 50 allowing Yorkshire to declare on 370 for five at the end of 100 overs.

Just eight overs remained in the day's play bowled by Darren Gough and David Stiff but these were successfully negotiated and Derbyshire resume today on 35 without loss.

Yorkshire: S A Richardson c Hassan b Pyemont 125, C R Taylor c Dowman b Wharton 117, R A Stead lbw Pyemont 0, V J Craven c Hassan b Gunter 50, J L Sadler not out 33, S M Guy c Dowman b Gunter 16, C T Brice not out 0, Extras 29, Total 370-5 declared.

Derbyshire: R M Khan not out 15, R J Bailey not out 11, Extras 7, Total 35-0.

Updated: 11:44 Thursday, May 09, 2002