NEW Zealander John Blakeley did not take long to make an impression as Cookley's overseas player this year.

After arriving in the country last Monday, John played for Cookley's Wednesday team in the Stainweld League.

And Blakeley promptly blasted a quick-fire unbeaten 72, including two towering sixes which landed on the village bowling green.

He is the brother of Jim, the club's first overseas player of last season.

Sadly, Blakeley's knock out of a total of 120-5 was not enough to to secure victory.

Chasing Cape Hill Victoria's 121-8 in 12 overs, he lost the strike in the last over and Adam Nicholls, needing two for victory off the last ball, was bowled.

Blakeley had earlier taken 1-16 with the ball.

It was an Australian, Phil de Vito, a new signing from Barnards Green, who played a major role for Cookley in their opening Worcestershire League Division Two fixture.

They beat Lye by 52 runs to earn 24 points in a great start.

De Vito hit 31 in Cookley's total of 158-8 in 50 overs, while Lye were dismissed for 105 with Adam Sellick and Paul Harris taking four wickets apiece.

Cookley 157-8, Lye 105.