Chapple optimistic about Lancashire's chances.

Chapple claimed his 900th wicket for Lancashire
as his side battled their way back into the match.

The second day of Lancashire’s clash with Warwickshire proved to be a momentous occasion for Glen Chapple who became the 15th player to take 900 first-class wickets for Lancashire.

Chapple claimed 2-47 on a tough day for Lancashire with the ball and proved why he is one of the best in the game, even at the age of 40.

A somewhat apt coincidence, Chapple’s first wicket for Lancashire was also against Warwickshire, all the way back in 1992.

Commenting on his 900^th wicket, Chapple responded with uncertainty and claimed to be certain of the significance of his wicket.

"I'd forgotten to be honest. I remember last year I was told I'd got 900 first-class wickets so I'd confused the two. There are a few knocking around that weren't for Lancashire.

"It feels like a long way but it's a good achievement, and it's nice when they come along as a surprise.

"I've been reminded of it on Twitter. I wasn't sure who it was but I do remember it. I've also been reminded that Andy Moles is 53!”

Away from his own achievements, the Lancashire captain was pleased with the way his side fought back and thinks they showed great character to respond after a largely unsuccessful day, with Tom Smith’s four wickets proving to be very useful.

"We've had a good day. Obviously we're still behind the game but in terms of quality of cricket and the attitude we showed was really good. We're pleased with our efforts and pleased with our disciplines, and we're in a position where we can still get back in the game.

"Last season Tom was injured at the start of the season. He's a very important cricketer for us with both bat and ball. From a personal point of view he'll be hoping he can play a full part all season and we know if he can do that then he can keep the team together. He's got a great pair of hands in the slips as well so he's a very important part of our team.

"This game comes down to small margins when you play on a good pitch and I think they were 200-3 off a few more overs than we faced to get to 200-5. Those two wickets are important in the scheme of things. We've fought really hard to stay in the game and tomorrow morning's session is big for us.”

One bowler who may have gone unnoticed today was Wayne White, who claimed the precious wicket of Ian Bell, who made 75 to steer Warwickshire in to the lead.

"His first spell was terrific, it was just what we needed after our opening spells. It took him a long time to make the breakthrough but that was the biggest wicket of the day. Ian Bell's wicket is worth three when he's playing like that, so I was really pleased for him.”

Simon Kerrigan also played a significant role today, claiming the first wicket of the Warwickshire innings to remove William Porterfield.

"Kegsy went at under two an over on a fairly unresponsive pitch, so that shows he's back in really good rhythm.”

Lancashire proved to be a tough bowling outfit despite going long spells without a breakthrough and Chapple believes that his team bowled well, eventually claiming the wickets they deserved.

"That's one of the characteristics of our cricket. As a rule for the majority of the time we're really good out there. We create pressure for the opposition and we fight hard as a team.”

On a day where most bowlers were eventually rewarded for their efforts, James Anderson will have been disappointed not to take a wicket, proving to be Lancashire’s most expensive bowler.

Chapple said:"Jimmy's a world-class bowler and he's disappointed not to have taken some wickets. Maybe he can bowl a bit better than that but he's just got to be patient. He bowled really well at Notts and if he clicks in the second innings he can make it even more difficult for them.”

With a lead of 69 runs, Warwickshire will still be seen as in control of the match, but Chapple thinks Lancashire have what it takes to achieve their first victory of the season.

"The pitch is still playing well. We batted well for periods on the first day and we just didn't stretch that out for long enough. That's what we'll have to do to get a lead, but the first thing is to knock over the last wicket and hopefully they won't get too many more. We've got to be on our game and make sure that doesn't happen. We can get a lead and hopefully not having to bat last it will deteriorate.