Swindon made a winning start to their 2004 campaign with an 85-run victory over local rivals Cirencester.

With the club aiming to bounce back to Glos/Wilts Division 1 at the first attempt, new captain John Baden will be delighted with both the victory and the nature of this warm-up performance.

Batting first in difficult conditions Swindon did well to compile a total of 167-7 from their 45 overs, thanks in the main to the top-order batters and some lusty late hitting, Liam Tucker top scoring with a well constructed 30.

In reply, Cirencester struggled against the Swindon new ball pair of Willoughby and Barrett ,who were ably supported by some athletic fielding.

Baker removed Hudson with a direct hit and when Paul Baden held a stunning catch in the slips off Willoughby Cirencester were in trouble at 14-2.

The real star of the show, however, was off-spinner Mo Zohaib, who after striking in his second over, proceeded to run through the Cirencester batting line up.

Dominic Jeffcott offered some resistance, but no-one else had an answer to Zohaib's trickery and he ended with outstanding figures of 5-13 from his nine overs as Cirencester were eventually bowled out for 82.

Skipper Baden will be pleased with his side's performance and will be looking for a similar effort, and result, when they travel to face Thames Valley Premier League outfit Thatcham this weekend.