FOURTH from bottom Tenbury CC endured a chastening defeat at promotion-chasing Astwood Bank on Saturday, after the hosts had piled up a huge 301-6 from their innings.

Tom Pugh posted the most economical bowling figures in the Worcestershire League Division Four fixture, his two wickets costing 58 runs and the home side enjoyed the soaring temperatures.

Pugh also tried to do his bit with the bat during the visitors’ reply, the opener finishing top-scorer with 69 before being trapped by Paul Boycott.

Zack Yarranton offered some resistance with a stubborn 62 after coming in at number eight but it was far too late by then, Tenbury already having suffered four of their innings’ six ducks as their batsman tried to attack the total.

The 2nds enjoyed victory in Division Four 2nd XI though, bowling hosts Malvern out for 155 after amassing 199 from their innings with a wicket to spare.