JAMES WHARTON of Holmfirth and Rory France from Upperthong have set a new record opening partnership for the Huddersfield Taverners Under 11 representative side.

The pair rattled up 168 against the Pontefract and District League at Hundhill Hall to set up a fine victory.

Despite temperatures in the high 20s, both batsmen carefully wore down the opposition attack before accelerating away in the final 10 overs of the 30-over match.

Wharton finished on 103 not out – his first century at the age of just 10 years five months – and it followed his unbeaten 50 for the Huddersfield Under 10 side the previous week.

France was 45 not out as Huddersfield reached tea with a total they were confident of defending.

Fine bowling from James Sunderland (Meltham), who claimed three for 20, and Tom Sanders (Denby Dale) with two for 29 helped dismiss Pontefract for 105.

The team’s next match is against the York Senior League at Malton on Sunday.