LUKE Radford returned to Barnt Green's ranks to help record a remarkable three wicket victory over bottom side Leamington Spa in the Birmingham League Premier.

Radford reeled off a wonderful 98 not out as the Green chased down Leamington's total of 196 all out in dramatic style to snatch a sensational success off the final ball of the game.

Skipper Andy Sutton said: "We had to come off twice for rain delays which meant we only had 34 overs to reach our target.

"We bat deep down the order and always back ourselves in these situations, so we decided to go for it and not to panic if we lost wickets.

"It was getting really tight as we needed 15 off the last over and then it went to eight runs off the final two balls.

"Luke hit the penultimate ball for six and then we scrambled two runs off the last ball.

"Luke has always been a very good cricketer and has been superb with both bat and ball this season - it's like having two players in one."

Sutton was equally delighted to have his Barnt Green side back towards full strength following an appeal for more commitment from his players.

He claimed: "When we have full availability, this is what we can do!

Leamington had been given a solid start through opening bat Jon Wigley who made 55, but were dragged by by the bowling of Radford ( three for 30) and Tom Brown (three for 33). As a result, the green bowled Leamington out in the 51st of their 55 allotted overs.

Sutton now faces an anxious wait to find out players availability for this Saturday when they host improving Kenilworth Wardens who have climbed to third place.