When the Warwickshire all-rounder scored 112 against Lancashire at Aigburth last Saturday he reached three-figures for the first time in first-class cricket since scoring 138 against Derbyshire at Edgbaston back in 2008.

That’s a fair old time between tons, although it must be taken into account that Maddy spent large chunks of that period out injured, including virtually an entire season with torn knee-ligaments. But so far in 2012, with bat and ball, the 37-year-old’s game is in excellent nick.

And he was delighted that his long-awaited ton came at a vital time for his team last weekend as his partnership with fellow centurion Rikki Clarke at Aigburth took Warwickshire out of deep trouble and set up their charge to a remarkable five-wicket victory over the chastened champions.

“The century was a long time coming and was on my mind for a few years,” Maddy said. “But for a couple of those years I was out of action with injury so it doesn’t really give a true reflection. To do it in such an important game made it all the more special though. It was very satisfying.

“At the start of the third day we were in a difficult position but before play we had talked about the need to be positive. At 81 for seven we were up against it but it was great to see Rikki come out and play the way he did.

“That really lifted the whole innings and changed the tempo and it was nice for me to play out there at the other end while he was batting so well. We kept each other going and it was very calm and relaxed out there.

“That’s the atmosphere we are trying to create.”