'I always strive not to score fifties but hundreds'

The down-to-earth 28-year-old, who outlined his determination at the start of the summer to score more big hundreds and double centuries, was true to his word as Durham were ruthlessly put to the sword.

His career-best 228 not out was his first double century at the Leeds ground – beating the 198 he scored against Worcestershire last summer – and the third double hundred of his career. Asked how highly he rated his innings, Rudolph replied: "Possibly No 1. It was probably my best innings and it meant a lot to me.

"Once I got to 100 I felt I was going to go on and get a big one.

"I've had six or seven fifties in the last few games and this time I really wanted to capitalise.

"I always strive as a top-order batsman not to score fifties but hundreds."

Since joining Yorkshire, Rudolph has been a model of consistency, finishing as leading run-scorer in each of his three seasons.

He is already on course to make it four in a row and believes the correct mental attitude is key to his success.

"I think I'm a lot more stable now emotionally when I'm batting," he said.

"Whether I've got 100 runs or 20 runs, everything's the same.

"I've also got confidence in my ability. That hasn't fluctuated as much as when I was a younger player, and it all comes with experience."

Rudolph is relishing his return to No 4. Last year he opened the batting with Joe Sayers, whose own upsurge in form allied to the splendid performances of new opener Adam Lyth have given Yorkshire's top-order a better balance.

"It's easier batting at No 4 and not facing the new ball," added Rudolph. "I think it allows me to get more consistent scores.

"I'm pleased with how it's going. Over the last 10 months or so I feel I've been hitting the ball sweetly through the covers and I'm also defending a lot straighter."