James Anderson takes two wickets as Middlesex reach 139-3 against Lancashire

James Anderson returned to competitive cricket for Lancashire on Tuesday at Merchant Taylors' School in Northwood. In a rain-affected opening day of the Division Two County Championship match, play did not begin until 2:10 p.m. due to wet conditions. Anderson claimed two early wickets, finishing the day with figures of 2-30 from six overs after dismissing Sam Robson and Max Holden. Middlesex responded through Luke Hollman, who finished the day unbeaten on 54 runs. The team reached 139-3 before bad light halted play for the final time. Only 39 overs were bowled throughout the day because of the intermittent weather. Lancashire, currently attempting to avoid a bottom-tier finish, has yet to bat in the contest.

• 5:10 PMYahoo Sports — Anderson in wickets but Middlesex recover against Lancs