THERE was a bright start to life for Droitwich in Jelf Worcestershire Cricket League Division Two although the weather deprived them of a deserved victory at newly-promoted Kempsey.

Chasing Spa’s total of 223, the showers curtailed the home side’s reply to 42 overs as their last pair clung on for three overs to save the draw.

Star of the day was 15-year-old Matt Gurr who followed up his maiden first-team half-century with two wickets.

He belied his years with a mature batting performance after Droitwich’s middle order spluttered following an opening partnership of 74 between Martyn Davies (20) and Jez Hanson (45).

Gurr finished on 53 not out as Spa were dismissed in the final over with Adam Baker claiming 4-71 for Kempsey.

The youngster then took the new ball and duly accounted for the first two wickets to fall — the first to a smart leg-side catch by wicketkeeper Jay De Costa.

Despite a rusty opening burst, Phil Thomas hit a rhythm from the other end and bowled a 14-over spell that was wicketless but cost just 20 runs.

He combined with the spin of Martyn Davies (4-40) to strangle the reply as Kempsey eventually held out on 114-9.

Following their promotion to Division One, the seconds suffered a heavy 132-run defeat at home to Harborne.

Dave Stephens took 7-41 from 17 overs as the visitors recovered from 30-4 to post 200-9.

In reply, Spa never recovered from 35-6 and were eventually all out for 68.

On Saturday, the firsts welcome Old Vigornians to St Peter’s Fields, the seconds travel to Cookley and the thirds open up their Division Five programme to a familiar foe in the shape of Pershore who beat them in a friendly on Saturday.