AVONCROFT failed to put enough runs on the board as they suffered a five-wicket defeat at Himbleton, which leaves the Stoke Heath side languishing in mid-table in Worcester County League Division Three.

Skipper Craig Hughes led the way with 64, while wicketkeeper Tom Murray provided a further 39 as Avoncroft posted a target of 257 all out off 50 overs.

But Himbleton had few problems in chasing down that total, with Alistair Pretty plundering an unbeaten 111 while Bromsgrove Rugby Club’s Jon Critchlow added 44 after opening the innings.

Avoncroft’s Paul Athey admitted: “We all thought 257 was below par as Himbleton is a small ground and they have a very good batting line-up.

“They must have the best top six batsmen in the league and a score around 300 would have been nearer the mark.

“Alistair Pretty batted extremely well and didn’t give a chance. If we’d have got him out, it might have been different.

“We’ve struggled to get the same side out from one week to the next, we always seem to have two or three missing.

“We need to get a more settled side to go forward.”

l Avoncroft bid to bounce back this Saturday when they entertain Malvern (1pm start).

Meanwhile in Division Two, Chaddesley Corbett stepped up their title challenge with a fine win over leaders Redditch.

Second-placed Corbett have closed the gap to 10 points.