Jack Haynes scores century for Worcestershire against Derbyshire

Haynes (133) and Azhar Ali (88) put on a third wicket stand of 187 runs after openers Jake Libby (17) and Ed Pollock (7) were dismissed early on day one at the Incora County Ground.

Pakistan international batsman Azhar was once more denied a deserved ton, having come just eight runs short last week against Durham, as he was caught after tea off the bowling of Alex Thompson needing just 12 more runs.

But together with Haynes, the pair once more struck up a brilliant partnership, just as they did to secure a draw last week.

Derbyshire were unbeaten so far this season ahead of the visit of Worcestershire and the hosts won the toss, putting the away side into bat.

The decision to bowl looked to have been a good one early on as Pollock edged a Suranga Lakmal delivery through to Brooke Guest in just the fifth over.

And then in the 12th over, Libby was the next to go as he was trapped LBW by Ryan Sidebottom with Worcestershire now 41-2.

But then Haynes and Azhar got to work and slowly but surely, kept the runs ticking over and they batted through to lunch with the score at 89-2.

The pair came out determined to build a strong score and both reached their half-centuries before the afternoon session was up and tea was taken without a wicket falling.

Azhar ramped it up after tea but when it looked like he would reach his first century for the club, he played at an Alex Thompson delivery and Wayne Masden took the catch at first slip.

The Pakistan international was visibly frustrated but played a big role in Worcestershire building a good score.

Haynes continued at the other end as Brett D’Oliveira came to the crease and both were determined to play shots.

Eventually Haynes' brilliant innings came to an end as Thompson had him caught at first slip for 133.

Derbyshire managed to end strongly and in the last few overs Sidebottom removed D'Oliveira for 35.

Adam Finch (1*) and Barnard (16*) saw the visitors to 320-5 at the close of play.