SUCCESSIVE defeats in their last two games has plunged KVCC down into the lower reaches of the Birmingham League Premier Division table.

Playing on another bowler-friendly wicket, this match became exciting as Walsall found run-scoring as difficult as Kidderminster had.

Struggling at 81-8, a superb stand of 74 between Alex McChristie (74) and Tom Freeman (23) gave Walsall a two-wicket win with just three balls to spare.

Batting first, KVCC opener Matt Pardoe was out first ball and wickets fell at regular intervals. Neil Pinner was caught for 23, James Ralph went for a duck and Craig Wood departed for 12.

A stand of 37 between Andy Kimberlin (12) and Chris Pyke (65) boosted KVCC, but Jonathan Wright was also dismissed first ball.

Mark Mansell and Ryan Derrick also supported Pyke, while Richard Kimberlin (14 not out) and Gareth Williams (5no) allowed KVCC to post 152-9.

The Walsall innings started as badly as KVCC’s as Richard Kimberlin bowled Worcestershire batsman Jack Manuel first ball, before overseas player Chris Jonker also fell cheaply.

Paul Baker, Dave Powles, Adam Breakspear, Jamie Middleton and Paul Byrne were all dismissed cheaply as Walsall stumbled to 63-7.

However, Alex McChristie (74) staged a 74-run partnership with Tom Freeman (23) to win the game.