WICKETKEEPER John Rendell starred with the bat as Chipping Sodbury successfully chased down a target of 251 to overcome Painswick by three wickets in the Gloucester division of the West of England Premier League.

Bowling honours were shared by Jamie Rendell (2-35), Ben Waldron (1-25), Tom Clay (1-36) and Nick Wake (1-41) while there were three wickets for Rob Mozelewski as the Stroud side reached 250-9.

Rendell then anchored the Sodbury reply, facing 126 balls for his 84 not out and playing the long innings that was required, assisted by vital contributions from brother and fellow opener Jamie (30) along with Jake Reed (21) before Mozelewski wrapped up proceedings with an unbeaten 23 from only 13 balls.

Tom Makepeace’s maiden century was a highlight for Sodbury seconds in a 69-run setback at Rockhampton who reached 314-8.

The teenager then dominated the Sodbury reply of 245 before he was dismissed for 122.

Sodbury thirds, meanwhile, came unstuck by 158 runs at home to University Staff in Division Three of the Bristol & District League.

The visitors piled up 350-2 before Sodbury were rumbled for 192, Sam Vile resisting with 67 while Nic Hambly was unbeaten on 38 when the final wicket fell.

The fourths, in Division Nine, came up 15 runs short away to Hambrook thirds at Page Park.

Aaron Campbell was the pick of the Sodbury attack with a haul of 3-35 as Hambrook reached 204-7.

In reply, Sodbury battled hard before being dismissed for 189, Ross Womack top scoring on 40.

The Sodbury Slayers launch their campaign in the new NatWest U19 Club T20 with a trip to Bristol on Tuesday.

Sodbury’s first home game follows soon after, against Bristol West Indians & Phoenix, on Friday July 31 (6.30pm), all welcome to attend at The Ridings.