RECOVERY MISSION SEES STAFFS OVER-50S OPEN WITH WIN

STAFFORDSHIRE Over-50s fought back from a dire situation to beat Warwickshire in their County Championship Group Four opener. Staffs were placed firmly on the back foot on their trip to Hampton & Solihull after tumbling to 62-7 following Guy Bulpitt’s decision to bat first.

Brian Fisher had made 41 in the early stages, but it required a sterling effort from the lower order to revive Staffordshire’s hopes. Stephen Scrimshaw led the comeback, while Glynn Moore (22) and Denton Brock (20) made valuable contributions as Staffs eventually made their way to 142 all out.

Jason Butler had caused the early damage to Staffordshire’s innings as he picked up 4-18 from his impressive nine-over spell. There were also double strikes from Jon Fair and Vic Clements.

Still, it appeared as though the visitors’ valiant recovery would be in vain as Warwickshire made a fine start to their run chase.

Jez Bishop (30) and Mark Pidgeon (24) compiled a first-wicket partnership of 54 to leave the home side firmly in control of the contest. Staffs hit the wicket trail, but at 944, Warwickshire were still favourites to secure an opening-day success. However, Bulpitt’s men refused to throw in the towel and quickly reduced their rivals to 104-8. That proved to be a decisive passage of play as Warwickshire were eventually bowled out for 128 as Staffs wrapped up a 14-run victory.

Skipper Bulpitt led the way with 3-18, while Fisher backed up his fine batting performance with a couple of victims. Tony Dutton and Scott Degg claimed a wicket apiece, while three run outs did little to help the hosts. Staffs are back on the road next Wednesday when they make the trip to play Herefordshire.