Harborne 265-8 Avoncroft 202 all out

Avoncroft lost by 63 runs

NEWLY promoted Avoncroft's survival hopes suffered a set back as they were out gunned by Harborne in the Worcestershire County League Division Two on Saturday in Birmingham.

'Croft had no answer to Harborne's big hitting batsman M James, who smashed 103 runs as the Birmingham side recorded 265-8.

Avoncroft's opponents had got off to a strong start, as captain Ian Powick and James took advantage of a quick outfield to hit 50 runs by the nine over.

The duo continued to frustrate 'Croft's bowlers until the partnership was ended on 143, when bowler Dave James dismissed Harborne's century maker.

'Croft then took a late flurry of wickets, with James taking 4-116 and captain Paul Athey 4-74, as Haborne recorded a challenging total of 265-8.

Despite playing on a batsmen friendly wicket that has been known to help high scoring matches, Avoncroft's order failed to take advantage. Only Andy Nicol (46) and Dave Apperley (40) got amongst the runs for the visitors as they were bowled out for 202 in the 48th over.

Harborne's Ben Mason was the team's chief tormentor - taking four wickets.

Avoncroft will be looking to bounce back and keep their hopes of staying in this division alive when they go to Luctonians on Saturday, June 10 (1.30pm start).

The game should prove to a close one as 'Croft only have a five point lead over fourth from bottom Luctonians.