Nick Gubbins hit an unbeaten century to hold the Middlesex innings together on the opening day of their crucial County Championship clash with Yorkshire at Lord’s.

Gubbins ended the day on 120 not out – his fourth Championship ton of the season – as Middlesex reached 208-5 in a game both sides must win to claim the title.

Reigning champions Yorkshire, who packed their side with bowlers, were left to rue three dropped catches – including Gubbins, who had made 22 when Azeem Rafiq spilled the chance at gully.

Jack Brooks (3-45) made early inroads for Yorkshire after they exercised their right to bowl first, trapping Sam Robson leg before without scoring.

Nick Compton (8) was another lbw victim, playing no shot to a ball that nipped back but kept high, while Malan reached 22 before he played on to David Willey.

Stevie Eskinazi (12) and John Simpson (15) kept Gubbins company for a while as he advanced towards his hundred, which he reached with a pull for six off Ryan Sidebottom.

Play was halted for bad light after 82 overs, with Middlesex skipper James Franklin alongside Gubbins on 21 not out.