chester-le-street, england(cmc)

Still celebrating his capture of the ICC Cricketer-of-the-Year title, Shivnarine Chanderpaul carved out a superb century for Durham as they dominated the second day's play against Sussex yesterday.

The prolific left-hander slammed an unbeaten 130 as Durham, attempting to make headway after a first day washout, reached 325 for four at the close in English County action.

Chanderpaul struck 15 fours off 177 balls in 3-1/2 hours of batting and shared an unbroken 182-run stand for the fifth wicket with former West Indies off-spinner Gareth Breese who stroked a classy 63.

The right-handed Breese faced 118 balls and struck 10 fours in just over 2-1/2 hours at the crease.

The duo came together with Durham in a spot of bother at 143 for four and proceeded to keep the Sussex at bay, though Jason Lewry (2-53) and Mohammad Sami (2-71) shone.

Openers Michael di Venuto (34) and Ben Harmison (30) gave Durham a solid start with a half-century stand before left-arm swing bowler Lewry broke the partnership.

Will Smith (23) and South African Dale Benkenstein (29) got starts but failed to carry on.