Sam Robson hits Middlesex century

Overlooked England opener Sam Robson scored 178 and shared a century stand with Nick Compton as Middlesex enjoyed a commanding start against Durham.

Robson's innings will aid his bid to rejoin the England setup after being left out of the tour of West Indies.

The hosts lost opener Nick Gubbins but a partnership of 113 between Robson and Compton (50) rebuilt the innings.

Adam Voges (57) fell lbw to Chris Rushworth and Robson went soon after, in the closing stages of day one.

With Jonathan Trott struggling at the top of the England order in the Caribbean, Robson provided a timely reminder of his talents at Lord's.

He was finally caught by Scott Borthwick off the bowling of Paul Coughlin, 22 runs short of a double century.

Robson hit 26 fours in his 300-ball innings, including a four off the very first ball of the match, as well as enjoying a stand of 127 with Australian all-rounder Voges.

The 25-year-old played in all seven of England's home Test matches against Sri Lanka and India last summer and scored a century in his second appearance against Sri Lanka at Headingley.