A HAPPY ending for the team helped Dan Birch to forgive and forget after being robbed of the chance of a first century for Derbyshire in limited-overs cricket.

The 27-year-old opening batsman was run out for 76 after responding to Greg Smith's call for a quick single which left him unable to make his ground quickly enough.

But Birch said there was no ill-feeling at the end of an impressive six-wicket victory for the Phantoms.

“Of course he's forgiven – that happens in the game,” said Birch. “We had a laugh about it in the changing room but, obviously, when you are out there and feeling good at the crease, it's different.

“I was a bit annoyed with him but a bit annoyed with myself as well because I could have said no.

“I wanted to lead the side to victory and get my hundred, which I was feeling comfortable for. That's what I was more annoyed with really.”

The one-day best 76 for Birch followed his season's-best 77 a day earlier in the Championship in a good run of form.

“I've been in good form most of the season, I've thought, and I've been striking the ball well. Wherever they bowl at the minute, it's just hitting the middle of the bat,” he added.