ALVECHURCH and Hopwood are finishing their Worcester County League Division Three campaign on a high note after they easily defeated relegation threatened Rushwick.

Adam Markham-Jones hit 63 while Mike Reuben reeled off 42 not out as Alvechurch and Hopwood totalled 185 for five from a reduced 35 overs.

Rushwick were then rolled out for 77 in reply after Sohail Malik snapped up five for 34 from nine overs.

Graham Jenkins also got in on the act grabbing two for 11 while Syed Hussain struck with two for 12 as Rushwick were removed within 22 overs.

Alvechurch and Hopwood will finish fifth regardless of the result of their final fixture at Himley thirds.

But close neighbours Astwood Bank thirds have been thown a lifeline following Rushwick's defeat - despite their game with Netherton being abandoned at the half-way stage.

Netherton were restricted to 166 for seven from 41 overs with Will Hands claiming two for 17 while DanThomas took two for 46 from 17 overs.

The Bank's reply only last two balls before rain arrived.

The result leaves the Bank just seven points adrift of third-from-bottom Rushwick who they must visit this Saturday.

Avoncroft piled on the runs against Malvern to reach 299 for four from a full 50 overs.

Sam Hughes struck 84 not out and there was plenty of support from Matt Hare 48, Will Sach 57 and Tom Murray 46.

Malvern took up the challenge in reply and rattled off 183 for six from 25 overs to clinch the winning draw.

Paul Athey proved pick of Avoncroft's attack by taking three for 40 while Josh Cound finished with two for 25.

Avoncroft round off the season with a trip to Netherton on Saturday.