Glen Chapple’s Lancashire will have to adapt to life in the second division of the Specsavers County Championship following relegation this week.

Despite the eight-wicket victory at Southampton, the Red Rose failed to survive as they won fewer games than Notts who finished one place above them on the same number of points.

There was a glimmer of hope yesterday and the possibility of survival after Liam Livingstone and his men put themselves in a strong position at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. In addition, Nottinghamshire failed to pick up bonus points in their first batting innings having been bundled out for 133.

At that point, Lancashire could have survived if they managed 300 runs in their first innings and Nottinghamshire lost to Somerset. They fell 17 runs short and only mustered 273 as Fidel Edwards took four for 72.

Paceman Tom Bailey was the star of the show for the visitors as he took four for 43 in the second innings to finish with match figures of eight for 100 to end the season with 64 wickets at 19.66.

After the victory today, Bailey reflected on his recent form and said:

“I’ve always had that ability in me.

“It was just about getting a run of games. I think my skills are quite good. I can get the ball to swing and seam. I’m also accurate which helps.” Bailey added.

He praised the leading wicket taker in Test cricket, Jimmy Anderson, for the advice that he has given throughout his career.

“He [Anderson] told me that I could do it if I put the ball in the right areas over the course of the season that you will then come up with the goods.” Said Bailey.
Bailey also spoke about how great it was to have former Test player Graham Onions alongside him in the bowling attack.

“I was worried when they announced his signing at the start of the year but he’s been really good. He’s helped me so much and only wants what’s best for the team.” Explained Bailey.
Worcestershire will join the Old Trafford outfit in the second tier as they only managed to pick up two wins this season.

Lancashire players Graham Onions and Liam Livingston shared their disappointment on Twitter.

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