Ledbury first XI started their season in style with a home victory over Pershore third XI.

The club showed their mettle on Saturday (April 20) as they opened the 2024 season, their first in Worcestershire Division Seven following last year's promotion, with a tick in the win column thanks to some bowling heroics from Jamie Turner at Orlham Lane.

Despite persistent rain in recent weeks, the home ground was in optimal condition just in time for the clash due to the tireless efforts of the grounds staff and volunteers.

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The match got underway with Ledbury captain Josh Evans opting to bowl first after winning the toss.

Pershore, however, were fast out the blocks, with their opening batting pair clocking 50 runs within the first eight overs.

The Ledbury squad needed a game-changer, and things seemed to take a turn when leg spinner Turner stepped up to the crease, mercilessly taking four wickets for 38 runs.

This sudden change of pace was aided by the skilled catches of wicket keeper Nick Gibbons.

Tom Hill offered formidable support, taking two wickets for 28 runs, while captain Evans also had two dismissals to his name for 41 runs, with Ledbury eventually bowling the visitors out for 195.

Opening batsmen Josh Evans and Chris Willemstein got Ledbury’s innings off on a high note, steadily amassing 70 runs before Evans was caught at 27.

Meanwhile, Willemstein held his ground, scoring a stellar half-century.

Gibbons, batting for the fourth, also matched this feat.

While the team lost a few wickets towards the finale with Tom Bowring run out at 17 and Jamie Turner bowled at seven, middle order batsmen Chris Dandy and Hill calmly navigated Ledbury through the stormy seas and over the finish line.

Looking ahead, on Saturday (April 27), Ledbury are set for a short ride to Bartestree to take on their second XI in their next league game.

Also, Ledbury second XI are set to start their season at home on Sunday, April 28, playing against Bartestree third XI in a friendly at Orlham Lane.