BIRMINGHAM & DISTRICT champions Smethwick got their title defence off to a losing start when they went down by seven wickets to Barnt Green.
Chasing 228 to win, Barnt Green’s Worcestershire left-hander Ed Pollock smashed 107 from 56 balls, while fellow Worcestershire player Henry Cullen hit 81 off 50 as they raced to their target inside 25 overs.
Indian overseas batter Deepak Khatri’s 76-ball 118 went in vain for Smethwick who were bowled out for 227. Jaques Banton, brother of England batter Tom, took 3-44 with his left-arm spin.
2024 runners-up Halesowen started t...
