Yorkshire feel the Payne

Michael Payne scored a century as Middlesex set Yorkshire 323 to win the U17 County Championship.

The batsman was unbeaten on three figures as his side recovered from 123 for five to post a commanding total at the halfway stage of the two-day match at Chelmsford.

Batting first, Middlesex made excellent early progress and after a 66-run opening stand, looked set for a huge score when they reached 122 for two courtesy of Daniel Simpson's 63.

But Yorkshire bowler Moin Ashraf had other ideas and took three quick wickets for just one run to reduce Middlesex to 123 for five.

Payne set about repairing the situation for Middlesex but Yorkshire were in the ascendency when Christian Portz was out with the score on 159.

Ajay Sangha gave some valuable support, hitting 37 as he and Payne added 91 for the seventh wicket.

Payne eked out some vital runs with the tail and reached his well deserved hundred in the final over of the day.

Ashraf was the pick of the Yorkshire bowlers, finishing with 4-44.