Former England batsman Ed Smith struck a commanding century as Middlesex rattled up 309-5 against Oxford UCCE on a rain-hit first day of their three-day match in The Parks.
Smith, who made 64 on his England debut and played three Tests against South Africa in 2003, hit 16 fours before he was stumped for 134 from 160 balls.
Ed Joyce weighed in with 85, which included 11 boundaries, but he was also ousted by leg-spinner Stephen Moreton after the pair shared a second-wicket stand of 208.
Mali Richards, son of legendary Viv, took two late wickets with his seamers, dismissing Paul Weekes and Nick Compton.
Jamie Dalrymple, an old Oxford Blue, was unbeaten on 33 at the close.
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