Bridgnorth (235) lost to Kings Heath (282-5) by 47 runs

After winning the toss, the hosts racked up 282-5 against a Cricket Meadow attack missing the experience of swing bowler Tom Weaver and legspinner Sam Whitney. In the run chase that followed, no Bridgnorth batsman was able to make the big innings that was needed to anchor a successful result.

A good start with the new ball was quickly reversed as the Kings Heath openers started to attack, with loose deliveries being latched upon with panache. Things got tidier in the middle overs, with James Ralph (2-74) proving the pick of the bowlers, well supported by another strong display in the field.

Tom Weston, Dave Exall and skipper Mark MacPherson-Lees all took a wicket apiece, but a poor final few overs allowed the hosts to accelerate to a strong final total.

Starting the chase, Ralph made a fast start by dispatching a number of early deliveries to the boundary with aplomb, supported well by form horse Ryan Lockley (31), before being the first man to fall to a poor shot at 68-1 in the 10th over, making 43.

Bridgnorth continued to play positively, however a big innings was required from one of the top order to genuinely threaten the hosts total. Dave Exall played well but was dismissed immediately after reaching his second half century of the season. Tom Weston (27), Gareth Mumford (33) and Matt Martin (15) all tried to keep their side’s chase on track, but wickets began to fall at regular intervals, keeping Kings Heath in charge of the game.

The chase ultimately fell short in the 49th over, as the Cricket Meadow men were left to rue a missed opportunity. A trip to Fordhouses presents the next chance to put pressure on the teams at the top of the table.