Gibson at it again

Aug 29 2007 Evening Chronicle

DURHAM star Ottis Gibson was once again the hero for the Riversiders this morning, taking four wickets to rip through the Worcestershire batting line up.

The 38-year-old West Indian was in superb form, removing the first four batsmen for just 29 runs in a devastating 10-over spell.

And it put Durham firmly in the driving seat on the first day of their LV County Championship clash.

After a slow opening, Gibson struck to remove opener Daryl Mitchell, caught by Muchall for just five, before taking the wicket of the dangerous Vikram Solanki shortly afterwards for six – this time caught by Kyle Coetzer.

Ben Smith was then caught behind, before Stephen Moore became Gibson’s fourth victim to leave the visitors on 50-4.

But veteran Graeme Hick and Steve Davies then set about steadying the ship, and their 50 partnership took Worcestershire past the 100-mark.

Meanwhile, Durham fans will have a tough choice for their player of the year this season, with wicket-keeper Phil Mustard leading the way for the title after a string of impressive displays.

But Gibson will certainly be a major candidate – and this morning’s efforts will go a long way to staking his claim.