CHIPPENHAM CRICKET: CAPTAIN Ian Merryweather hammered an unbeaten 73 as Chippenham made a solid start to life in the West of England Premier Two with victory at Hardenhuish on Saturday 4 May.

Merryweather continued his impressive pre-season form, hitting eight fours and four sixes as Chippenham passed the Frenchay total of 137 with five wickets to spare.

The visiting skipper received good support from Richard Bates, who scored 35 before becoming one of Frenchay bowler Luff's two wickets for 51 runs.

But there was disappointment on the batting front for the Wiltshire side's two new boys.

Mark Hunt, who returned to the club in the summer from Goatacre, made seven, while fellow opener and South African overseas star Hartman Steyn was dismissed for just two.

Earlier, off spinner Jason Searle had produced a fine bowling display to help dismiss Frenchay in 48.2 overs.

Searle took four wickets for 16 runs from 14 overs, and included among his victims was the hosts' top scorer James Carter.

Richard Bates and Fry weighed in with two wickets apiece for the visitors, who picked up 18 points for their victory.

Merryweather was delighted with his matchwinning knock.

He said: "It seems to be going well at the moment. That's 200 in three games for me, so I'm pleased.

"It was a good result and the first and seconds both won at the weekend. That is the first time we have won our first league game of the season for about three years.

"We have prepared well for the season and it is good that we managed to keep it going on Saturday."

Chippenham play host to Taunton this Saturday, start 1.30pm.