ROSS CRICKET CLUB'S First XI travelled to Worcester to play Old Elizabethans Third XI last Saturday, for what was the latest match in Worcestershire County League Division 4 South.

Having won the toss and chosen to bowl, Ross got off to the perfect start when Andrew Bevan had opener H Nicholls caught at first slip by Tim Barnard off the first ball.

With the wicket offering good pace and carry, Bevan (17-2-55-4) once again looked dangerous, and with Andy Waldis (7-1-35-2) offering good support, Old Elizabethans were in trouble at 35-3. Unfortunately, Ross were unable to capitalise, and led by P Johnson (45), the home side clawed their way back, and with all batsmen from numbers two to nine reaching double figures, finished on 225-8 from 50 overs.

With the quick wicket and lightning-fast outfield, Ross set out to bat in positive fashion, with Jack Evans (79) once again leading the way. At 97-2, Ross looked liked they were in control – but as has been the case so often this season, the lack of any significant partnership-building was to cost them dear.

Once Harry King (26) departed, with over six runs per over required, the Ross innings petered out, and it was left to Harry Porter (14 not out) and David Skyrme (4 not out) to bat out the remaining five overs to secure an eight-point losing draw.