VIKRAM Solanki yesterday cracked his first Championship century in almost two years.

But a superb captain's knock of 110 -- in a one-day style with 96 runs from boundaries -- was not enough to put Worcestershire in command.

After dismissing the County for 278 all out -- quickie Ian Hunter leading the way with 4-92 -- Derbyshire closed the second day's play on 68-2 to hold a healthy lead of 128 at New Road.

Skipper Solanki last celebrated a Championship ton in June 2004 with 107 against Kent.

On this occasion, the England one-day international's classy 159-ball innings was of huge importance after Worcestershire slumped to 65-4.

Solanki led the fightback, contributing to a 108-run fifth-wicket partnership with Steve Davies, after Stephen Moore, Daryl Mitchell, Ben Smith and Graeme Hick all fell cheaply.

Derbyshire's first day score of 338 now looks more than good value on an unpredictable wicket offering encouragement to seamers.

Moore smashed a career-best 246 in last May's corresponding fixture. But there was no repeat feat, the opener perishing for a duck to the day's second ball.

Mitchell offered catching practice to Michael Di Venuto before the County reeled further.

Smith was rapped in front of his stumps and Hick nudged the easiest of catches to James Pipe, the first of four scalps on his County return.

But Solanki was in rampant touch, punishing half-volleys with a never-ending series of crunching drives.

He offered one chance on 34, snicking wide of Ant Botha at gully, but it was an otherwise faultless display until he located South African Botha at point.

A patient 49, including nine fours, from teenager Davies offered valuable support, while Ray Price chipped in with an unbeaten 34.

The County made inroads into Derbyshire's second innings before the close, dismissing Steve Stubbings and Chris Taylor for nine, but the visitors held the upper hand.