Builth Wells suffered a 56-run defeat in their opening game in the Worcester Cricket League Division 7 (South) fixture at Fownhope Strollers, writes Paul Worts.

Electing to bat, Strollers posted 232 for 8 from their 45 overs with Muhammad Zafar (88) topscoring, while there were useful contributions lower down the order from Alex Carter (34 not out), Bradley Lucas (26) and George Wood Cole (20).

Paul Greenway (2-44) and Martin Hurst (2-51) were the main wicket takers while captain, Dylan McPhee conceded just 22 from his nine overs, picking up one wicket.

Builth, who won the Marches league first division last season, saw their reply compromised losing Richard Galton and debutant, Neil Harris early on. Paul Rowe (29) and Dylan McPhee (39) steadied the ship but despite 41 not out from Steffan Towns, The Bulls were dismissed for 176 in the 40th over.

Builth are at home against Brockhampton 3rds on Saturday while their second team begin their season away at Almely 2nds in the Worcestershire League Division Nine (North Herefordshire) where Presteigne visit Luctonians 2nds.

Hay, who won the Marches League second division last season, have been placed in Division Eight (South) and start at home against Luctonians. Kington are in the same division and take on Ledbury in their opener.

Meanwhile Builth’s Kevin Hall made his debut for Wales Over 70s in a friendly fixture against Wiltshire at Croesyceiliog last week. Hall topscored with 22 for Wales who were all out for 94 before Wiltshire got the runs for the loss of just one wicket.