WORCESTERSHIRE were on course to open their first-class programme with a victory over Oxford UCCE in The Parks today.
They closed last night 537 runs ahead with four second innings wickets left.
The County launched the three-day match on Saturday by piling up 523-5 declared after being put in. Graeme Hick hammered 164, including three sixes and 26 fours, while newcomer Ben Smith retired after hitting 137 which contained 20 fours.
Vikram Solanki topped up the tally with 84.
In reply, Oxford UCCE were dismissed for 145 in 57.2 overs with Alamgir Sheriyar claiming 5-46 and fellow paceman Kabir Ali taking 3-45.
By the close last night the County's second innings stood at 159-6 with new signing Gareth Batty having made 48.
Meanwhile, Worcestershire's second eleven won by 12 runs in a 45-over game against Loughborough University at New Road yesterday.
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