WORCESTERSHIRE’S batsmen took the opportunity of some much-needed time in the middle against Oxford MCCU in The Parks yesterday.

After winning the toss captain Daryl Mitchell helped himself to a century on the first day of the three-day game and fellow opener Matt Pardoe made 85 as the pair figured in a stand of 210 for the first wicket.

Mitchell hit 14 fours in his 180-ball stay at the crease, while Pardoe struck 11 fours from 244 deliveries.

Alexei Kervezee’s poor run of form continued, however, making just three.

Neil Pinner impressed with a half-century and young all-rounder Joe Leach was also among the runs as Worcestershire declared on 348-4.

Oxford MCCU reached 14-0 at the close.