The 19-year-old made 111 for the County in their three-day match against Cardiff UCCE yesterday, helping his side to a declaration on 321-6.

And, having reached three figures for the first time, Wakely then spoke of the relief and personal trauma that made it such a special occasion for him.

"It's about time," the youngster said. "I think it's been a long time coming – although I have always felt in good nick this season.

"It was quite an emotional thing for me as it's been a bit of a troubled time for my family recently.

"Two members of my family – my grandfather and my cousin – have passed away recently so there was an added significance for me when I my made my hundred.

"My grandfather was a big part of my career. He came to every game I ever played and kept every scorecard.

"He was a lovely man who everyone liked and he played a big part in the development of my game.

"So there was a bit of an emotional drain before I got there. But playing cricket has helped me – it's what I love to do."

The hundred also comes at a good time for Wakely.

His form has not been as good as he would have liked so far.

And, with the added competition of Andrew Hall and Johan van der Wath arriving today, places in the first team at Wantage Road are set to be even harder to come by.

Wakely continued: "I know I've got to score runs to keep my place in the team.

"I hear some people complaining about the South Africans coming but, from my point of view, it is a good thing.

"The youngsters like myself in the set-up can learn a lot from them and if there is competition for places then everyone has to play that bit
better.

"Although the bowling was not as good as it is for the first-class counties it was still nice to spend some time out there.

"I've maybe not had the luck I've needed so far and it's nice to know an innings like this will keep me in Nicky's (Boje) mind."

He has been used as an opener in the Championship matches so far this season. But this knock came batting at number three – Wakely's preferred position.

However he insists he is willing to play anywhere in the Northamptonshire order as long as it means he is getting a game.

"I've batted at three all my career," he added. "But I've also been talking to Capes (David Capel) about versatility and the ability to play anywhere in the order.

"I'm not particularly worried where I bat. I've been learning a lot about opening but my job is to get runs wherever I am – either in the order or first or second team."