1st XI
Birmingham League Division Three
Worfield 128 all out
Aston Manor 129-5
ASTON MANOR WON BY 5 WICKETS

Manor got off to a winning start on their return to the Birmingham League against last season’s Shropshire Champions who were playing their first match at this level in their Clubs history at their well-appointed ground in the village of Worfield.

The visitors opening attack of Imran Khan (2-18) and Rahul Bakshi (1-24) used helpful conditions very skilfully to keep the hosts under constant pressure. Fiery bowling from the impressive Kieran Carroll (3-20) ripped through the middle order before the leg spin of Shaun Findlay (3-25) wrapped up the tail to complete a commanding and professional performance.

Manor’s fielding was sharp throughout and their catching of the highest order, highlighted by four victims for wicket keeper Russell Guy.

However when it was Manor’s turn to bat they also found conditions difficult. Rahul Bakshi (16) and Jason Furnell (14) both got starts, but some tremendous seam bowling from Gagandeep Singh (4-33) ripped through the top order and left the visitors in serious trouble at 51-5. Russell Guy (15 not out) steadied the ship and gave good support to Simon Mugava who led the counter attack with a belligerent unbeaten 57 from only 47 balls to seal victory. Mugava, who had earlier bowled ten tight overs of spin, smashed twelve fours, one six and took only three singles during his match winning innings and looks to be a more than useful addition to the squad for the men from Church Road.