Derbyshire v Middlesex Metro Bank One Day Cup game 2

Middlesex 266 (Bracknell 56, Anderson 46, Hollman 38, Dupavillon 3-47, Moore 2-39, Conners 2-44, Patel 2-49)

Derbyshire 267-1 (Came 113*, Reece 88, Guest 32*)

Derbyshire won by nine wickets

Derbyshire moved to the top of the table with an impressive, commanding performance against Middlesex today. 

An excellent century by Harry Came, who was well-supported by Luis Reece in a double century opening stand, steered his side to victory with seven overs to spare.

It isn't often that I get to write on a performance so dominant, so I'm enjoying this one. There were a few aberrations in the field, three catches put down that one might have expected to be held at this level, but that should not detract from a Derbyshire display that was one of consummate professionalism. 

The visitors began well, Robson looking in good touch before being dismissed, while Cracknell led a charmed life, especially against Sam Conners, who beat him regularly. He went on to a gutsy half century, but thereafter no one played an innings of sufficient impetus to put put the chase into 'danger' territory. Andersson, who rumours suggest is a winter target for Mickey Arthur, batted steadily but could never break loose from a keen bowling attack, before being bowled by one from Patel that kept very low.

I thought this was the best I have seen Sam Conners bowl this season, on a pitch that had considerably more bounce and pace then we have been used to at Derby. He deserved more wickets than he got, but played a part in a good bowling performance. Dupavillon was very lively, if a little erratic and a couple of the visiting batters looked uncomfortable against him. Meanwhile, Harry Moore again bowled with remarkable accuracy and skill for a young man of only 17, while Patel was wily with his spin. Zak Chappell was more expensive today, but seemed to be struggling with injury and at one point called for painkillers. Hopefully it is something that can be managed, because we don't have many players in reserve. 

The eventual score was 266, but Derbyshire set off like a train, aided by bowling that was erratic, to say the least. Both Reece and Came were quickly into their stride and only the willing work horse Ethan Bamber was able to slow their progress. Landmarks were passed and the only surprise was when Reece missed a sweep against Hollman and was leg before for an excellent 88. This was the Reece of old, strong off his legs and powerful when driving, as always in this form a pleasure to watch.

Came progressed to his century, a well-crafted and mature innings and with assistance from Guest saw his side to an easy win with 42 deliveries to spare. His season hasn't gone as he might have wished, but he remains a player of talent and potential. I hope that he enjoys a strong finish to the summer that he can build on next year.

It was an excellent display. Cynics might say it wasn't a full Middlesex side, but it wasn't a full Derbyshire one either and you can only beat who is in front of you. 

They did that with consummate ease and considerable professionalism today. 

Next up is Lancashire on Wednesday and good things happen when a side gets on a roll. Five wins from eight should probably see Derbyshire to the knockout stage and that has now become three from six. 

We might yet salvage something from this season. I like this Derbyshire...