CRICKET: Cookley got back to winning ways in Worcestershire Division Two with a 17 run win over Harborne thirds.

An excellent batting performance ensured they got back on track.

Jaimen Rudd led the way with a classy 117 supported by Skipper Paul Thomas 66 not out.

Harborne valiantly tried to chase down the 291 but ended 17 runs short on 274 all out.

On Saturday, Cookley tackle Stourport away in a battle between third and fourth.

The seconds made it four wins in a row, thanks to a devastating spell from Mike Wood 6-22 with Stuey Nicholls (28) and Matt McCann (51) scoring runs to record a comfortable victory, which looked certain before a massive middle order collapse saw the seconds just scrape home.

Cookley seconds remain at fifth in the table.

Meanwhile, the thirds suffered a nine-wicket loss to Stone.

Cookley fielded the youngest senior team in their 146 year history with seven players aged 15 or under.

However, it was 22-year-old Charlie Webb who impressed on debut with 63 and super veteran Phil Dixon 77.

But with an inexperienced bowling attack, Stone won with ease. Cookley thirds remain next to bottom in Division Seven South.