THE unstoppable train that is Stourbridge CC stayed firmly on track last Saturday with a nine wicket win over Worcester.

Richard Bradley’s side maintained a healthy lead of 24 points at the summit of Worcester League Division One, ahead of this weekend’s trip to ninth placed Droitwich Spa.

Against Worcester, Bradley decided to field first to avert any intervention by the weather.

Worcester found Stour’s opening attack of James Musk and Jitesh Patel too hot to handle.

Oliver Peppiatt was quickly removed by Musk, before Patel bowled skipper Daniel Mckay just as he was getting into a groove.

Dave Jones then took three quick wickets to reduce the hosts to 63-5 and a quite devastating spell from Matt Bradley pretty much sealed the visitors’ fate as they were bowled out for just 106.

After a short break for rain Stour began their reply and quickly lost Alex Bingham for just eight.

But he was the only victim Worcester could pick up as Matt Bradley smacked 40 off 44 balls and Josh Banks 50 from 40 as the hosts cruised to victory in just 15 overs.

There was less joy for Stourbridge thirds who held on for a losing draw against Ross-on-Wye.

Stour skipper Peter Griffiths won the toss and inserted Ross in a game reduced to 48 overs per side. Ross’ opening trio of James Tiffen (68), Harry King (54) and Graham Howls (51) were all in the runs to help their side amass 293-5, with Stour’s bowlers unable to stem the flow.

Stour, in reply, batted steadily to reach 167-7 with Chris Norgrove’s 60 providing the backbone of the innings.

Ross also tasted success in the fourth XI’s clash as they amassed 238 from their 50 overs, thanks to skipper Steve Tucker’s unbeaten 90. Stour youngster Areeb Mohammed was a bright spot as he took 5-42.

In reply, Stour’s youngsters were bounced out for just 132. Billy Green was the top scorer with 31.