Chorleywood Seconds had the better of their first match in Herts Division Five following promotion but had to settle for a draw as Southgate Compton grimly hung on to deny them victory.

Wood batted first and posted a solid looking 235 for nine from 52 overs. Andrew Dunning top-scored with 51 whilst there were important contributions from Guy Manson-Bishop with a typically aggressive 46 and Lyndon Ryan with 37.

Southgate only scored 16 runs in the first 16 overs of the reply. As the innings progressed, Wood continued to take wickets regularly, but Southgate picked up the pace and finished up on 148 for eight.

Excellent half-centuries from openers David Coulshed (85) and Tony Humphrey (64) ensured Leverstock Green Seconds kicked off their summer with a four-wicket win at Ware.

Ware provided a tough test, although seamer Adam Thomas - with five for 60 - ripped through the best of their batting to restrict the hosts to a below-par 189 all out.

All seemed set fair for the Green with 130 on the board without loss, but after the openers’ departures, a mini-collapse led to number eight Majid Khan picking up the pieces. His 22 not out calmed the frayed nerves of skipper Lee Littlejohn and helped steer his side home with four wickets in hand.

West Herts Seconds began the season with a draw against a strong Radlett Thirds side.

After winning the toss West Herts managed to post a competitive total of 210 all out. Jimmy Phang and Barry Marshall put on 77 for West Herts and composed batting from Vinesh Gorasia kept them firmly in contention.

The Radlett chase got off to a flying start with some loose deliveries aiding them. But Ian Gurney was in tremendous form with the ball as he took six for 46. His efforts put Radlett on the verge of defeat but they held on to post 197 for nine.