Newly-promoted Kew were left licking their wounds fafter being well beaten by Tring Park in their first match at level two of the Home Counties Premier League West, writes Stuart Cosstick.

Paul Abbott looked in good touch, striking a couple of early boundaries, but was out for 24 soon after receiving a nasty blow to his hand.

Sri Lankan bowler Srijevaprakashdharan then ripped the heart out of the Kew middle order and they were all out for 107 despite battling knocks from David Rowley (18) and Steve David 22.

Kew needed early wickets, and were unlucky that first ball of their innings bowled by Jim Cameron didn't get a nick as it beat outside edge of the bat. The Tring Park openers made the game safe as they put on 86 for the first wicket. Kew managed 2 wickets, one each for Guy Watson and Steve David - but Tring Park ran out comfortable winners by 8 wickets with plenty of overs to spare.

Kew 2nd XI also had a disappointing day, losing at Harefield. Sent in to bat in a rain affected and reduced over game, they managed 156-8 in 41 overs; Mike Dunne top scoring with 67. Harefield who won the game off the last ball of the match by 3 wickets, were indebted to an unbeaten 103 from Lee.

Kew did have something to shout about though, as both the 3rd & 4th XIs won their respective matches in convincing fashion. The 3rds beat near neighbours Teddington Town 2nd XI by 6 wickets. Teddington Town batted first and mustered 146, with 3 wickets a piece for David Sheppard and Kidron Thomas.

After a bright start, Kew's chase looked in trouble at 59-4, but Lawther (47*) and Thomas (45*) saw Kew to victory with some confident strokeplay.

The 4th XI batted first and were bowled out for 237 by Cove. Sender made 60 for Kew. Kew won by 41 runs.