IRISH batsman Ed Joyce topped 1,000 runs for the season yesterday when he scored a personal best-equalling 129 for Middlesex against Derbyshire at Lord's. In an interview with CricketIreland before the season began, Joyce had stated that the milestone was his main ambition for the season. He was the 15th county player to reach the mark, and those ahead of him included test cricketers Nick Knight, Ian Ward, Graeme Hick, Mark Ramprakash, Darren Lehmann and Andy Flower.

Joyce has now scored 1,006 runs at an average of 55.89, and has scored three centuries and six 50s in 18 innings.