Libby’s 167 leads Worcestershire’s charge, but Sussex’s seam attack clinches the win by 47 runs

Jake Libby’s brilliant 167 was not enough to prevent Worcestershire from falling short in their chase of Sussex’s 361, as the hosts won by 47 runs in a dramatic conclusion to the Rothesay County Championship Division One match at Hove. Despite a valiant effort from Libby, who anchored Worcestershire’s pursuit, Sussex’s seam attack, led by Ollie Robinson, proved decisive.

Libby, whose career-best scores had previously come at Hove, continued his love affair with the ground, resuming on 64 and battling through a difficult start to the day. His innings showcased skill and resilience, especially in surviving a tense spell from Robinson, who frequently tested his defences. Robinson, who beat the bat numerous times, could easily have finished with multiple wickets but was denied by an umpire’s decision when Libby was on 86.

Libby reached his 18th first-class century before lunch, from 180 balls, but Worcestershire were still far from the target. Skipper Brett D’Oliveira helped him put on 81 for the sixth wicket, but with the new ball approaching, Sussex’s seamers upped the pressure. Tom Clark made an important breakthrough, bowling D’Oliveira through the gate for 29, and soon after, Matthew Waite fell to Karvelas, leaving Worcestershire with much to do.

Libby found solid support from Waite, but with the game edging towards its climax, the introduction of Fynn Hudson-Prentice shifted the momentum. Hudson-Prentice’s first ball of his spell saw Libby edge a rare loose shot to second slip, where Clark dived to take a crucial catch.

Libby’s departure left Worcestershire needing 75 with just two wickets in hand, and though Fateh Singh was dropped behind the stumps, the match was soon in Sussex’s grasp. Robinson returned after tea to take the final two wickets, wrapping up the victory when he bowled Ben Gibbon with a perfect delivery that sent the off stump cartwheeling.

Worcestershire coach Alan Richardson praised Libby for his outstanding contribution. “Jake Libby was absolutely outstanding. The standout innings of the whole game,” he said, acknowledging the difficulty of chasing such a large target. However, he also noted that Worcestershire’s first-innings deficit proved insurmountable.

Sussex head coach Paul Farbrace lauded the team’s resilience and contributions from key players. “It was an outstanding game, and I’m delighted we came out on top,” he said. Farbrace highlighted Robinson’s skilful bowling despite an ankle injury, which played a pivotal role in the win.

The victory marked Sussex’s second since their promotion back to Division One, showcasing their ability to compete at the highest level. “The challenge now is to replicate this success in our next three away games,” Farbrace added, as Sussex aim to build momentum through the season.