Skipper Ellie Bath hit an unbeaten 77 as Oxford chased down 170 to start their season with a three-wicket win over Clifton Village 2nd in Women’s Midlands League Division 1 at Thame Town.

Bath’s innings was supported by a quickfire 29 from debutante Rachael Potter as Oxford secured victory with three overs to spare.

Oxford elected to bowl after winning the toss, and Lucy Gladdy removed Clifton’s top three with the score on just 27.

Clifton then rallied, and strong batting from Ruth Barron, who finished with 81 not out, saw them close their innings with a competitive total of 169-6.

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After tea, Oxford’s top order built a strong foundation, reaching 56-1 before Clifton’s bowlers forced an opening.

The loss of Genny Porter for 14 triggered a middle order wobble as four wickets fell cheaply.

However, Bath carried on and together with Potter’s hard-hitting intervention, the two put the game beyond Clifton’s reach.

Scores: Clifton 2nd 169-6 (R Barron 81no, L Gladdy 3-26), Oxford 170-7 (E Bath 77no).

OXFORDSHIRE'S Deanna Stamp and twins Charley Noble and Ellie Noble have been selected in the first round of the England Women’s Development Programme at under 15 level.

It sees them attending the National Performance Centre at Loughborough.