ASHLEY Newfield got among the runs as Bromsgrove started their Birmingham League Division One campaign with a 79-run victory over Smethwick.

Newfield hit 135 runs from 158 balls, while Lewis Cordes bagged 50 as the Boars made 283-4.

Smethwick were then bowled out for 204 in the 50th over, with Newfield taking three wickets.

There were two each for James Ganderton and Alexei Kervezee.

They go to Himley on Saturday, who were relegated from the Premier Division last year.

The seconds also piled on the runs. George Cracknell scored his maiden century, 114 not out, with support from Ryan Pedley (69) and Tom Underhill (51) in Bromsgrove’s total of 310.

Worcester made 156 with Underhill and Mark Meacham taking three wickets each.

Over at Newland, the thirds recovered from 76-6 to 225 after a century stand between Paul Husbands (78) and Josh Searle (36). Barnards Green batters Jez Clarke (79) and Dave Golder (62) ensured a home victory by four wickets.

The fourths had a tough start to Division Three and were bowled out for 130. Alveley raced to a four-wicket victory despite the efforts of leg spinner Sam Johnson who recorded figures of 4-28.