Middleton, one of the best all-rounders in Western Zone, had scored just 35 runs in four digs, with an average of 8.75.

To put it in perspective, at the same point of season 2013-14 Middleton had racked up 170 runs at 42.50.

In 2012-13, he’d thrashed 188 at 47.

“I was getting a bit worried actually, I hadn’t been scoring anything,” he said, reflecting on the opening third of the Orange District Cricket Association season.

Some were suggesting taking over the captaincy of the maroons was affecting Middleton’s batting. 

Not anymore.

Middleton promoted himself to open in his side’s Limited Overs Cup second-round clash against Centrals on Saturday, and proceeded to bludgeon 145 off just 108 balls, including 12 fours and six sixes.

“That’s my highest score for Cavaliers, not overall, but for Cavs,” Middleton said.

“I got lucky though. Young Josh Coyte should have had me early, but you have to take those chances I guess.

“I have had a lot more to think about with the captaincy, but I don’t think was affecting me too much. Everyone goes through lean trots, and I ran myself out a couple of times early in the year.”

A Coyte outswinger took Middleton’s edge when the hard-hitting all-rounder was on just 27. 

Unfortunately, wicket-keeper Max Dodds grassed the chance as he dove in front of Dean Turner at first slip to grab the edge.

Although Middleton scored an unbeaten ton in Centenary Cup earlier this season, and also smashed 127 in Royal Hotel Cup last season, Saturday’s ton was his first century in the top grade’s longer formats since 2009-10.

Middleton and CYMS batsman Dave Neil - who racked up 156 not out, also against Centrals, in round four - are the only two centurions in the top grade in 2014-15.