MALVERN returned to form with an excellent win at Stourport, with Rob Francis having an outstanding match.

STOURPORT v MALVERN

Stourport batted first and enjoyed a fine opening partnership of 70, despite some superb bowling by Francis and Neil Thompson. However, once the two openers had departed Stourport began to struggle.

Gordon Hawker bowled a fine spell, which slowed the run rate down but it was the introduction of Jeremy Lee which really turned the game in Malvern's favour. Lee bowled an excellent line and was rewarded when he picked up six wickets, including a hat-trick to end Stourport's innings. Malvern's ground fielding was very good and there were superb catches by Francis and Thompson.

After a cautious start, Thompson and David Arnold both began to grow in confidence and posted a vital 50 run stand before Arnold departed.

Thompson followed quickly after but an in-form Paul Young and Steven Carter put together an important partnership, which took Malvern within 70 runs of victory.

Francis scored an unbeaten 45 and though Young was out near the end for a good 41, Malvern secured a win and 20 points.