Notts v Sussex: James Taylor & Jake Libby hit centuries

James Taylor had scored eight first-class fifties in 2014 before finally passing three figures against Sussex

Centuries from James Taylor and Championship debutant Jake Libby helped Nottinghamshire make a solid first-innings reply against Sussex.

Libby (108) and Taylor (101no) put on 181 for the third wicket as Notts reached 310-3 at the close of day two.

Opener Alex Hales also contributed with 57 at the top of the order.

Earlier, last-wicket pair Ashar Zaidi and Lewis Hatchett added a further 33 runs for the final wicket as Sussex posted 391 all out at Trent Bridge.

Notts still have hopes of finishing second in Division One, but a wonderful 178 from Sussex opener Chris Nash on day one put them on the back foot.

Resuming on 358-9, Sussex held up Notts for nearly eight overs of the morning session before Harry Gurney was able to take the final wicket, bowling Zaidi for 37.

Hales and 21-year-old Libby added 97 for the first wicket, but when both Hales and Michael Lumb departed in quick succession, Taylor was a more than able partner for the Plymouth-born youngster.

Libby fell to Hatchett shortly after reaching his century from a sedate 247 balls, while Taylor got to three figures for the first time in the Championship this season with a single off Steve Magoffin in the penultimate over of the day's play.

Notts batsman Jake Libby:

"The whole day has been crazy, it's just been surreal. I was very nervous in the 90s and obviously to get it away past point for the hundred was a great moment.

"Both parents were in the crowd and it's obviously a great moment for them. I'm just chuffed with how it has gone."

Sussex opener Chris Nash:

"I always enjoy coming here, but it's been a very tough day.

"You really have to work hard for your wickets out there - it's a very good pitch to bat on."

VIEW FROM THE COMMENTARY BOX

BBC Radio Nottingham's Dave Bracegirdle:

"Many congratulations to Nottinghamshire's two centurions, with Jake Libby deserving of special praise.

"The youngster became only the 11th man to score a ton on his county debut and it was somehow fitting that the last to do it, James Taylor, was at the other end and able to share the moment."