St Augustine Cricket Club batsman Brett D’Oliveira welcomed a maiden County Championship century for Worcestershire on day three of a key Division Two fixture against Essex at New Road on Tuesday.
The talented right-hander was eventually out for an impressive 128, having struck 18 boundaries against a relatively strong visiting bowling attack, which included international cricketers Ryan ten Doeschate, Jesse Ryder and Ravi Bopara.
Tuesday’s vigil saw D’Oliveira surpass his previous highest first-class score of 122, which was made for Worcestershire against Oxford Marylebone Cricket Club last month.
“It is absolutely amazing to get the first Championship century and hopefully keep up the good form,” said D’Oliveira.
“It was nice with the new ball because the ball came onto the bat easier, but as it got older it was tough to score. I’d like to think I cashed in on the bad balls. You are always nervous when you get into the 90s, but I just kept my head down and got through it.
“My first thought after reaching 100 was, ‘yes, I’ve done it’ – and then obviously my dad, Damian, is never too far away from my thoughts. It was great to get there and to see the boys on the balcony and their support.”
The 24-year-old is the grandson of former England batsman Basil D’Oliveira – and plays for St Augustine Cricket Club in the Western Province Cricket Union premier league during the South African summer.