Asa Tribe strengthened his case for a senior England call-up by anchoring the England Lions' second innings against South Africa A at Arundel.
After the Lions were bowled out for 157 in their first innings, they faced a challenging target after South Africa A posted 331. Tribe and fellow opener Ben McKinney gave a solid start, but McKinney fell for 32, followed by a steady loss of wickets. At stumps, the Lions were 218-4, with Tribe unbeaten on 88.
On Sunday, Tribe converted his knock into a century, partnering with wicket-keeper Ben Mayes to steady the innings. "It was tricky early on. The ball seamed around and they bowled tight lines," Tribe said. "I had to earn the right to score, judge well and leave well. Once I got through that tough phase, I felt more fluent."
The 22-year-old Jersey-born Glamorgan batter has a growing reputation for converting starts into big scores. Last September, he hit his maiden first-class double century against Northamptonshire, and earlier in 2025 he scored three centuries in a week for Jersey in the ICC Challenge League.
Tribe earned his Lions spot after impressing with an unbeaten 129 against Australia A in Brisbane last December. He retained his place for the two four-day matches against South Africa A.
Though Tribe represents Jersey internationally, he remains eligible for England, as Jersey is an ICC associate member while England is a full member. He has been open about his England ambitions, and with the national selectors seeking a long-term opening partner, Tribe's consistent performances are making a strong impression.
"My batting is in a good place," Tribe added. "Not amazing, but not bad. I'm working hard and hoping to keep pushing my case."