“Following the very favourable results so far achieved in Duncan-1 and Duncan-2 ST-1, the partners have agreed to immediately commence the drilling of another well, the Gilbert Freeman-1 well, to test the northern portion of the Rayburn prospect,” Strike said.

The well is about 442m north of the Duncan-1 discovery well and will target the same Middle Wilcox Pay Sands encountered in the previous two wells on the structure.

Gilbert Freeman-1 has a proposed total depth of 12,200 feet (3719m). It spudded on Wednesday, December 5, Texan time, and is expected take around 30 days to drill

Meanwhile, at Duncan-1, Middle Wilcox testing is proceeding with initial flows at commercial rates, according to Strike. Gas and condensate sales are underway and a stabilised flow rate is expected to be available for reporting in around four weeks.

Duncan-2 ST-1 has been cased for future production testing of the same zone, which is scheduled for next month.

The sidetrack well, about 1.4km southwest of Duncan-1 well, encountered a full interval of sand of similar thickness and quality to the Middle Wilcox sand penetrated in the discovery well, Strike said.

Elevated gas readings and wire line logs indicate the sand is gas-bearing.

Strike Oil has a 22.8% working interest in the Rayburn Project. The operator is Cypress E&P Corp.