BROMSGROVE'S season got off to the most unusual start in the Birmingham League Premier when an unseasonal burst of hail stones forced their clash at Old Hill to be abandoned on Saturday.

The Boars had won the toss and wisely decided to bat first, a decision that would have paid off in the game had been shortened but had been completed.

After pre-season of weather disruptions, this was a chance for Bromsgrove to get some much-needed time at the crease and opening batsman Ashley Newfield produced some encouraging signs when he scored 40 runs on an surface that did not lend itself to chalking up big scores.

Worcestershire's Alexei Kervzee also 40 as Bromsgrove made 137-6 in 28 overs.

But after a delay for bad weather the game was called off at 4.30pm when a hailstorm left the Haden Hill Ground blanketed in white.

Boars skipper Mark Evenson said: "It was like nothing I have ever seen before to be honest, the ground and cars were covered in white.

"Old Hill had to start by 4.50pm but the hailstorm ensured that would not happen.

"It was frustrating because we wanted to go out and play some cricket.

"We won the toss and did okay but the outfield didn't help, you could play a lovely shot and the ball simply wouldn't move very far."

Bromsgrove take on Attock at home in the league on Saturday (noon start).

Meanwhile, Warwickshire and England wicket keeper Amy Jones will be visiting the club on Monday, May 9 to help launch the girls section.

She will be helping to run a one hour taster session at St Godwalds Road between 6pm and 7pm.

Girls sessions will run on a regular basis every Wednesday evening between 7pm and 8pm up until Wednesday, July 13.

The course is for seven to 13-years-olds will cost £30 and anyone interesting in booking can visit bromsgrovecc.play-cricket.com/ for more details.