In idyllic sunshine conditions at Billericay, spectators witnessed a superb knock by Southend's Michael Clarke in this Division Two draw.

Southend skipper Ian Heiser admitted to some surprise at being asked to bat when he lost the toss and the home outfit were left ruing their decision as Clarke, who hit a majestic 132, and Dave Aldridge (71) took the visitors close to the 300 mark.

Ton up - Southend's Michael Clarke hits out on his way to 132 at Billericay Picture: ROBIN WOOSEY

Clarke hit three sixes and 18 fours as he and Aldridge put on 177 for the fourth wicket.

Ben Wathen chipped in with 21 while, for Billericay, Dix took 3-69 and Pryke 2-78.

Billericay collapsed from 70-1 to be in all kinds of trouble at 97-7 after Wathen grabbed 4-65, but were rescued by an unbeaten stand between Adam Samouelle (60) and Bethell (38).

Heiser said: "Even though we didn't win it in the end this was by far our best performance of the season. All credit to the two Billericay batsmen who held out. I set attacking fields but they didn't give any chances and were quite comfortable in the end."

Published Monday, June 2, 2003

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