MONMOUTH Cricket Club's 2nd XI kicked off their debut season in the Worcester County League Divi-sion Three South with a comfortable seven wicket win over rivals Tenbury Wells seconds.

On a muggy afternoon and on a damp wicket, Monmouth won the toss and decided to bowl on what looked like a good track despite the recent poor weather.

It proved the right decision from captain Martin Newell, however, as the Monmouth attack soon had the Tenbury batting in trouble.

The movement and pace from opening bowlers Tom Baker (2-37), and control and accuracy of Idris Leonard (3-17) saw the visitors slump to 49/5 at the half-way point.

Monmouth shared the workload across six bowlers, all contributing in keeping the run rate down to a pedestrian level whilst chipping away with regular wickets.

It was particularly pleasing to see young left arm seamer Richard Shaw, in his debut for the senior side, pick up a wicket and bowl superbly to finish with excellent figures of 1-14.

For the visitors only Taylor (13) and captain Rawlings (33) managed to make double figures as Tenbury Wells struggled against some fine Monmouth bowling.

The fielding by Monmouth was also of a high standard - a diving catch in the covers by Pete Jerimiah the pick of some good work by the home side. In reply, Monmouth got off to a bright start as openers Tom Baker and Gordan Grey looked to get the small target knocked off as quickly as possible.

Baker made a quick fire 19 before his middle stump was uprooted, whilst Grey played a more steady knock of 14 before being caught brilliantly in the covers.

This brought the to the crease Tony Jones (33no) and Martin Newell who eased Monmouth home inside the 23rd over.

For the visitors, Munir finished with 1-23, Rawlings 1-15 and Yeomans 1-6.

Monmouth 2nds are sponsored by Alchemy Wealth Management and thanks also go out to match ball sponsors Frost Antiques and A L Stokes Chemist.

This week sees Monmouth 2nds play host to Worcester Dominies, from 1.30pm at Chippenham Sports Ground.