MALVERN travelled the short distance to Worcester Nomads and collected a winning draw in an entertaining contest.

WORCESTER NOMADS I v MALVERN I

Malvern lost Adam Dovey for 13, smartly stumped by Roger Dixon off Darren Lakin. Mark Hooper then proceeded to take control and hit a superb 55 before falling to Schiffman.

Steven Carter and Mark Baugh then added 68, the partnership ending when Baugh slipped in mid- wicket going for a quick single. Carter upped the tempo as the innings reached its close, finally falling for a very good 56.

Matt Cross again batted well for a mature 26, the lower order sacrificed their wickets in pursuit of quick runs and Malvern's final total of 240 was a sound effort.

The highlight of Nomads' fielding effort was undoubtedly Paddy Clear's brilliant full-length, diving catch to dismiss Luke Halion.

Worcester Nomads enjoyed a brilliant start to their innings with both Derek Austin and Malcolm Jones in free scoring mode.

However Austin's dismissal precipitated a mini collapse from 130-0 to 145-4.

Dovey and Jeremy Lee, together with captain David Arnold's shrewd field placings, brought the game back on an even keel. Dovey and Lee both bowled with great result in humid conditions, gradually slowing the run rate down taking wickets at regular intervals.

Arnold sensibly introduced paceman Rob Francis into the attack and his dismissal of Malcolm Jones for an excellent 70 put Malvern in control.

Anton Madzarevic defied his old club for the final few overs and the game evolved as a keenly fought and deserved draw.

Tomorrow (Saturday) Malvern 1st XI travel to Hagley and the second XI entertain Hagley Seconds at Regency Road (1.30).