HAGLEY hit the summit of Worcester League Division Two with a resounding 115 run win over Monmouth.

However, they did not enjoy the best start to the game after being asked to bat, as a burst from Dan Risk removed most of the top order and left them reeling at 93-5.

Opener Simon James (89) stood firm and finally found a partner in James Trinham (50). The pair consolidated and knocked the ball around nicely. Late order hitting from skipper Rus Andrews (44) then helped Hagley post an above par total as they were bowled out for 273 in the final over.

Dan Head (21) and David Teague (29) got Monmouth’s reply off to a solid start but the introduction of John Porter (3-29) to the attack proved crucial as he made the breakthrough.

There was then the rare sight of the bowler being removed from the attack by the umpires for bowling too many beamers - but it couldn’t halt Hagley’s momentum.

Amjad Ali (4-50) and Chad Hitchcock (1-25) dealt with the middle order before spinner Paul Morgan (2-12) tidied up the tail as Monmouth were dismissed for 158 in the 34th over.

A delighted Andrews said: “We have continued our good form and had a convincing win over the leaders and put ourselves top of the league. We are now in prime position to maintain our objective to get promoted.

“All the lads have contributed throughout the season, and it is good to see when a few fail, others are there to put their hand up.

“Our performances at the moment are very encouraging.”

Hagley seconds enjoyed a nine wicket win over Stourbridge to move out of the Division One drop zone.

Bowling first, skipper Steve Plant made the breakthrough when he dismissed Ryan Willets. Rob Hancock (2-102) was introduced from the other end, and bowled an excellent spell, picking up the wicket of Ben Mantom (42).

Hancock also removed Ian Biddle (57) with a good ball as Stour were limited to 230-6 from their 47 overs.

Hagley’s reply was dominated by a majestic 161 not out from Ben Woolridge. The opener ran the Stour bowlers ragged as he and Hancock got the home side off to a strong start and an opening stand of 131.

After Hancock had been dismissed by Ryan Willets (1-24) for 44, Woolridge cracked 90 runs in a 103 run second wicket partnership with Tom Jordan as Hagley eased to victory in the 34th over.

The seconds will hope to maintain their resurgence when they head to Alvechurch next week.

Hagley third XI won again against Malvern to make it two weeks in a row where all Hagley teams have won. Captain Ranvir Sandhu (5-46) was again an inspiration with the ball, and Ian Watt (56 not out) helped knock off the runs.