Hertfordshire lost to Middlesex Seconds by 124 runs in their friendly at Radlett.

Middlesex won the toss and got off to a flying start. Paul Stirling, just back from his World Cup efforts with Ireland, scored 149 in 105 balls whilst 17-year-old Adam Rossington made 111 in 79 balls.

Herts stuck manfully to their task in view of this onslaught and tried to slow the scoring rate down but the first wicket partnership put on 261 before Rossington was out in the 30th over.

Stirling followed soon after but then wickets fell steadily and Middlesex reached 335 for seven as the innings closed. Charlie Randall (7-1-52-3) and Nick Lamb (6-0-53-3) were the two best Herts bowlers.

Herts did not give up but chasing such a huge total in 40 overs was a daunting task. Jamie Hewitt top scored with 56 whilst Nick Lamb contributed 34. Ben Frazer hit a breezy 29 in 20 balls but the challenge was just too great and Herts finished up on 211 for seven wickets.