OXFORDSHIRE were sent spinning to a 55-run defeat in their one-day friendly against Buckinghamshire at Aston Rowant.
A stunning spell of 6-12 from teenage left-arm Saif Zaib sent Oxon tumbling from 153-3 to 191 all out in reply to their opponents’ 50-over total of 247-7.
Lead by an opening impressive burst from Karl Penhale, Oxon restricted Bucks to 104-4 at the halfway stage.
But a late stand of 49 in six overs for the seventh wicket helped them to an impressive total on a dry pitch.
Former captain Luke Ryan was the most successful – and most expensive – bowler with 3-64 in his ten overs.
In reply, Oxon slipped to 33-3, before a stand of 120 between Lloyd Sabin and new skipper Jonny Cater in 30 overs gave them a chance, before Zaib took control.
But they were the only home batsman to reach double-figures in a rare defeat to their neighbours.
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