Joe Clarke’s first double century in professional cricket helped Nottinghamshire battle to a well-earned draw against Warwickshire on day four in the LV= County Championship.
An immense showing from the 27-year-old saw him finish on 229 not out, as Notts and their visitors shook hands on a draw with a second innings total of 464/6 at Trent Bridge.
Clarke's 100-run partnerships with Lyndon James and Steven Mullaney, and 103 with Calvin Harrison to end the game helped Notts complete a heroic comeback.
The beautiful conditions set up another fine day of cricket, as a light breeze wafted its way across the Trent Bridge turf.
A moment’s reflection was held following the tragic events which unfolded in Nottingham yesterday, which was impeccably honoured by everyone inside the ground.
Joe Clarke looked to continue his brilliant form from the previous day, facing the opening delivery of Briggs at 119*.
Mullaney joined Clarke in the middle, and the pair reached a partnership of 100 runs before Rushworth clean-bowled the captain for 48.
Clarke maintained his elegant yet effective stint at the crease, with five off the first two deliveries of a Hassan Ali over taking the batter to 150 runs.
Seven overs later, Clarke smashed his first six of the match, with a gorgeous sweep off the spin bowl of Briggs.
Tom Moores was defensively diligent alongside him, traversing with 91 balls during his stint at the crease, but Rushworth took another wicket to see Moores depart for 25.
Harrison emerged from the pavilion and watched Clarke hit 200 for the first time in his career, sweeping his 318th ball past the slips for four.
The duo kept battling on, with Harrison putting on an outstanding display to shield 142 deliveries from a fearsome Warwickshire bowling order.
With the draw looking increasingly likely, handshakes were exchanged after the 153rd over to ensure that the points were shared and Nottinghamshire ended the match with their heads held high.
Harrison finished the day on 38*, with Clarke at the forefront once again. He amassed 229 unbeaten runs off 365 balls, including 35 fours and one six to see Nottinghamshire recover against all odds.
The home crowd left Trent Bridge with a smile on their face and a performance of the highest quality, on a day that meant far more than just cricket.