SKIPPER Steve Adshead led from the front as Astwood Bank got their Birmingham League Division Three campaign up and running with a 34 run success at Handsworth.

Adshead held Astwood Bank's batting together with a timely 106 which included 10 fours and four sixes.

Opening bat Alex Robinson added a further 30 runs as Astwood Bank posted a target of 218 for seven to chase and then removed Handsworth for 184 with five overs to spare.

Former Gloucestershire player Adshead said: "It was a difficult pitch to bat on and most people struggled to make a score. I was really happy to get 218 on the board.

"Although I got most of the runs, Alex Robinson also played an important part."

Handsworth then found it hard work against Astwood Bank's seam attack of 17-year-old Ryan Blakemore who ripped out figures of four for 37 while Mike Desmond claimed three for 22 off eight overs.

Only Kamau Loverock made any real impression with the bat for Handsworth by making 85.

Adshead added: "It's always good to get that first Saturday win on the board."

Astwood Bank entertain Worcester Nomads this Saturday who were promoted from the Worcester County League last term.

The Bank have also progressed in the National Clubs Knockout after they proved far too strong for Worcester County League Division Three side Kempsey.

Sam Thomas and Tom Pedley both struck 30 as Astwood Bank found themselves bowled out for 143 on a wet wicket.

Kempsey then collapsed to 59 all out in reply.

The Bank now face village side Dumbleton in the next round after they dumped Worcester County League leaders Cookley out of the competition.

Steve Adshead added: "Kempsey usually play our third team in Worcester County League Division Three, but I was very impressed by both their bowling and fielding."

And Adshead is under no illusions when they face Dumbleton, who currently play in the Gloucestershire division of the West of England Premier League and put the Bank out of the National Knock Out a couple of years ago.