LIGHTNING has struck in the same place twice for Bromsgrove Cricket Club First XI after they despatched Birmingham and District Premier Division Old Hill from the National Knockout at St Godwald's Park.

Last Sunday's five-wicket third round victory was a near replica of 12 months ago when Nick Husbands' side defeated the same opposition at the same stage of the National Knockout and venue by 88 runs.

Further deja vous followed for the Boars 24 hours later when they travelled to Sutton Coldfield. Victory by eight wickets, after skittling the hosts out for just 54, was remarkably similar to last year when they completed a ten-wicket demolition job and dismissed the hosts for 103.

Husbands also took seven wickets in both matches.

Although the results were almost mirror images of last year, skipper Husbands is just delighted to have got the season off to a good start.

He said: "The toss is so crucial if you want to win the game. Last year I won four tosses all season and I have already equalled that this year. We are a very strong bowling side. If we bowl first we will knock the runs off."

Bromsgrove also saw their Birmingham League division one match at Kidderminster abandoned last Saturday.