THE Southern Highlanders District Cricket Squads kicked off their campaign with matches against Dudley North.

The u13s travelled to Chaddesley Corbett and lost the toss. Having to bowl first, the South bowlers took to the task superbly. Murphy, Johnson, Icke, Austin and skipper, Barnards Greens’ Jack Mackintosh also bowled with great control.

The North managed to accelerate their scoring towards the end of the innings and was happy to post a competitive total of 144-7 off their 40 overs.

In reply, the Highlanders were reeling when they lost Wilson and Nicholls in the first over before a run had been scored. Bowling hero Clasen briefly got the scoreboard moving before he fell for 11, leaving the Highlanders with a mountain to climb at 21-3. This brought Worcester Nomads pair Jamie Oliver and Lewis Austin together. Oliver (67) played positively throughout and struck some fantastic drives and pulls. Austin (44) played very watchfully with great shot selection and the pair added a magnificent match-winning stand of 110. Both fell in quick succession but skipper Mackintosh, Icke and Murphy not only saw the South to a fine win but also continued on to pick up further batting bonuses and finish on 169-7 off their 40 overs.

The u11s side put in a fine bowling performance with Barnards Greens’ Max Middlebrook in the wickets to dismiss the North for just 77. However, in reply, the Highlanders slumped from 20-2 to 26 all-out.

The u12s also put in a fine bowling display as they rolled the North over for just 82 at Pershore. More drama was to follow, however, as the South limped over the line with just one wicket in hand.