A FINE, undefeated century from Malvern College boy Will Gifford earned his side a creditable draw against their old rivals Shrewsbury School.

MALVERN COLLEGE v SHREWSBURY SCHOOL

No doubt heartened by the news that he has just been selected for the England Under 15 squad, he batted with great resolution and no little skill in a mature innings of 121 not out.

Earlier, Shrewsbury had ridden their luck when the ball was new to take advantage of a quick outfield and piled up an impressive score of 242-4 declared. In reply, Malvern were reeling at 45-3 in the face of some aggressive and hostile fast bowling.

But Gifford stood firm and together with his captain Joe Lewis (31) he steadied the ship. Gradually, his confidence grew and he started to hit the ball with a crispness and a power that is not often found in a 15 year old.

Cartwright with a splendid cameo of 24 provided some fireworks at the end but the day belonged to Gifford who strode off to a standing ovation having helped Malvern to a respectable 215-6.