MALMESBURY began their away league campaign at Colwall and accurate swing bowling saw them reduced to 18 for 2 after 12 overs, following a spell of eight overs for only three runs.

James Tweedale was successful in forcing the pace of scoring, and he fell eventually for an excellent 49. Useful contributions from James Pearce-Smith (22) and Mark Lester (24 not out) saw the Malmesbury total reach 175 for 7 after 50 overs.

Much depended on an early breakthrough and a steady opening spell, but although one wicket fell in the fifth over, the score leapt to 59 for 1 in 10 overs.

After that the Malmesbury bowlers could not contain the batsmen on a good pitch. Richard Gaunt had the best spell of bowling, finishing with 4 for 35 from his full 15 overs, and later Mark Lester proved that he is a much better change bowler than new ball bowler.

The team are obviously missing the influence of overseas player BK Majumder. There is cause for concern but not panic and an opening bowler is needed.

This week Malmesbury are at home to Wootton Bassett.