Hamilton marks his Devon return with a century

ELLIOT Hamilton marked his return to National Counties cricket with a century and a near miss in the rain-ruined draw with Berkshire at Wargrave.

- CONRAD SUTCLIFFE

Opener Hamilton, who is just back after a year's sabbatical from three-day cricket, made 87 in Devon's first innings and shared a stand of 173 with Matt Thompson in a team total of 270 for nine declared.

Hamilton went all the way to 124 not out when Devon batted second time around, sharing another sizeable second-wicket partnership of 120 with fellow left-hander Thompson.

The game fizzled out into a draw late on day three when it became apparent there was no prospect of obtaining a result due to the time lost to bad weather.

James Horler, the Devon captain, said it was great to see his opening partner back in the side and on form.

"Elliot was superb over all three days and showed why he deserved his place back in the side," said Horler.