Opening defeat

The Bromsgrove Road side failed to contain the all-rounder who top scored with an impressive 81 and then took 4-34 to hand Redditch an opening day defeat.

Redditch skipper Dan Protherough admitted the former county star had been the difference between the sides but added that his own batsmen had not helped themselves.

"He batted exceptionally well but his bowling was nothing special - just accurate," Protherough said. "Some of our side got themselves out with poor shots."

Evesham won the toss and opted to bat with Radford's efforts steering them to 201 all out. Guy Muspratt (4-62) was the key wicket taker with Nev Mason and Richard Young taking two wickets apiece.

There was an early set-back when opener Allison (5) was dismissed and Redditch then struggled for anyone to make an impression on the scorecard.

Seven batsman reached double figures but Protherough top scored with 37 with Joe Hill (23) the only others to endanger the home side's total.

"No-one went on to get a big store and that is the key to winning games," Protherough said.

"It is all down to experience and we are still learning.

"Their side was filled with experience while three of our side were aged under 20. But they acquitted themselves well."

The skipper added that the game was closer than the scoreline suggested with three quick wickets at the end of the Redditch innings giving the scorecard a lopsided look.

"Our aim now is to concentrate on our own performances and put in performances each week," Protherough added.

Redditch play their first home match of the season on Saturday when Worcester are the visitors to Bromsgrove Road.

They had the worst of a losing draw at the weekend, struggling to contain a Beacon side who posted a target of 259-6.

l Redditch 2nds cruised to a nine-wicket victory at home to Smethwick, Adam Gailey (20 no) and Paul Baker (37no) steering them to a match-winning 101-1.