Hemp's hundred puts Middlesex on backfoot

David Hemp hit a majestic 129 as Warwickshire piled up 416 runs in 117.3 overs against Middlesex at the second day at Lord's in the County Championship Division Two game. Middlesex made a strong reply closing the day at 82 for no loss.

Hemp, the hero of Middlesex batting dropped opener Strauss at second slip off Donald, who was visibly annoyed. Resuming the second day at 226 for four, Warwicks lost overnight Batsman Dougie Brown for 36 to Angus Fraser. Only Hemp was the lone light as the morning session was interrupted by bad light and rain forced the two sides off the field thereby forcing an early lunch. Hemp who was 16 not out overnight, went to complete a well deserved century, his first, of the season.

Hemp added 84 with NMK Simth for the sixth wicket and 55 for the seventh. Hemp was the ninth wicket to fall after making 129 off 216 balls inclusive of 18 fours. Warwicks lost Allan Donald (8), Hemp and Alan Richardson (0) in quick succession and were finally dismissed for 416 with Dagnall remaining not out on 5.