Dean Elgar achieved his 50th first-class century, partnering with Tom Westley to anchor Essex to a draw against Durham in the Vitality County Championship.
Elgar, a former South Africa international, scored 120 not out, batting throughout day four alongside Westley, who remained unbeaten on 63. Their unbroken third-wicket partnership of 165 runs from 421 balls ensured Durham had no chance of victory. Essex are now 12 points behind leaders Surrey, while Durham remains in the chasing pack, having collected 16 points from the match.
Chasing an improbable 405 on the final day, Essex made no effort to secure their fifth win of the season. Instead, Elgar and Westley focused on a defensive strategy, neutralising Durham's bowling attack. Westley took 19 balls to get off the mark and broke a 27-ball run drought. Durham's frustration was evident as they resorted to slow clapping the bowler, a gesture reminiscent of a long jumper preparing to leap.
The crowd reacted negatively, and an incident occurred where a shout of "no ball" was made as Ben Raine ran up to bowl. The umpires intervened, speaking to Durham's captain Scott Borthwick, while spectators exchanged heated comments with fielders. Despite the distractions, Elgar and Westley reached lunch with only 54 runs added in the morning session.
In the afternoon, milestones began to accumulate. The fifty partnership came up in 168 balls, Elgar reached his half-century off 96 deliveries, and the century stand was completed in 247 balls. Durham's closest chance for a breakthrough was a bump ball from Elgar, which was ruled not out by the umpires.
Elgar, who scored his first-class century in Bloemfontein for Free State against Limpopo in 2007, has now achieved 50 centuries across various teams, including South Africa A, Knights, Somerset, Titans, Surrey, and Northerns. This century is significant, as it demonstrates his enduring talent and determination, especially after retiring from international cricket last winter.
A mere 85 runs were scored in the afternoon session, and when Westley reached his 86th first-class fifty off 198 balls, the captains agreed to a draw at 17:00 BST. To highlight their resilience, Essex's second innings saw 400 dot balls delivered.
This draw leaves Essex just 12 points behind Surrey, setting up an exciting match against the leaders next week at the Kia Oval.