Joe Clarke scored a brilliant century and fought a virtual one man battle for South Perth CC on the opening day of their Western Australian Cricket Association first grade clash with leaders Joondalup.
The Worcestershire wicket-keeper had stated his desire to convert a series of half centuries into a three figure score before he rejoined the county – and he was as good as his word.
Clarke finished on 140 out of 215 all out after his side had been put into bat.
He came to the wicket with South Perth 5-1 and only one other player reached double figures in H. Brown (15) who helped him add 59 for the fourth wicket.
Clarke was last out after putting on 58 for the last wicket with A. Penter (seven not out).
The England Under-19 player struck nine fours and three sixes and batted for 284 minutes and faced 226 deliveries.
It means he has emulated county and England Under-19 team-mate Ed Barnard who scored a century for Queanbeyan District against North Canberra Gungahlin just before Christmas.
Clarke has been a model of consistency for South Perth and had scored six half centuries in 11 first team innings prior to the meeting with Joondalup.
He has been promoted to the number three spot since the start of the New Year and relished facing the newer ball and being able to bat for longer.
Joondalup reached 50-1 in reply and the game will be concluded next weekend.
