In a remarkable display of skill and experience, James Anderson led Lancashire to a thrilling 20-run win over Derbyshire on the final day, claiming four wickets for 18 runs. At 43, and two years after retiring as England's most prolific Test wicket-taker, Anderson showed he still has what it takes, dismissing key Derbyshire batsmen to restrict them to 108 runs while chasing a modest 138. His impressive performance, which included running out Zak Chappell, not only earned Lancashire a surprise win but also marked his first victory as the team's permanent captain, propelling them to second place in Division Two after just two matches.
Elsewhere, Surrey's Jamie Smith and Ollie Pope found form in a high-scoring draw against Leicestershire, each scoring centuries to put their recent Ashes struggles behind them. Smith added 89 and Pope finished unbeaten on 83 as Surrey closed on 263 for four, contributing to a match total nearing 1,500 runs.
Defending champions Nottinghamshire secured their first win of the season, defeating Glamorgan by 192 runs at Trent Bridge. Glamorgan's chase of 478 never gained momentum after the early loss of Asa Tribe, who was bowled by Brett Hutton after adding just three runs to his overnight score of 82. Liam Patterson-White sealed the win by taking the last three wickets.
Sussex achieved their second win in as many matches with a five-wicket victory over Warwickshire, successfully chasing 328 with Jack Leaning scoring an unbeaten 120. Despite their perfect start, Sussex trails Somerset by five points due to a lack of bonus points. Yorkshire's poor start to the season continued with a 214-run loss to Hampshire, unable to reach the target of 426 and finishing on 211 all out.
Kyle Abbott took his 47th five-wicket haul, while George Hill contributed 52 runs in addition to his five wickets in the first innings. The absence of injured captain Jonny Bairstow was deeply felt as Yorkshire lacked the necessary batting depth. In Division Two, Kent managed a draw against Northamptonshire, thanks to Ben Compton's unbeaten century, after following on at Canterbury.