Worcester name McGrath as player of year after eight wicket haul

Glenn McGrath was installed as Worcestershire's Player of the Year after a defiant but ultimately unsuccessful bid to snatch promotion with victory over Northamptonshire at New Road.

The Australian took eight for 41 - the second best return of his career - to dismiss the Second Division champions for 125 and become the leading bowler in the Championship with 76 wickets.

But Worcestershire were unable to clutch the last straw when set to make 262 in 43 overs. They could only hold on for a draw at 119 for six with Ryan Driver unbeaten on 47 when bad light brought about an earlyclose.

Openers Paul Pollard and Elliott Wilson to leg-side catches in the first two overs from Darren Cousins and Paul Taylor.

The long-serving left-armer, Taylor, went on to take four of the first five wickets, including danger man Vikram Solanki, who played one big shot too many after racing to 30 out of 41.

So Northamptonshire head for the top-flight while Worcestershire stay in the lower division - and with no McGrath to boost their chances next year. He will be touring with Australia before returning to the county in 2002.

An all-action last day began with Worcestershire needing to add 61 to their overnight 50 for five if they were to head off the threat of the follow-on.

This was achieved in quick time by David Leatherdale (46) and Steve Rhodes (42) before a declaration at 124 for seven presented Northants with a lead of 136 but only 80 overs in which to conjure up a result.

The possibility of setting a target was taken out of their hands as McGrath bowled Adrian Rollins first ball and captured five for 31 in his first spell. Kevin Innes and Toby Baiiley then added precious runs before their tormentor returned to polish off the last three wickets in 11 balls.