BUNTINGFORD made the perfect start to the cricket season with a four-wicket victory against Hockerill on Sunday. On a typically damp April wicket, a low-scoring match was always on the cards, but Pawltrey (25) and Radford (30) helped the visitors from Bis

BUNTINGFORD made the perfect start to the cricket season with a four-wicket victory against Hockerill on Sunday.

On a typically damp April wicket, a low-scoring match was always on the cards, but Pawltrey (25) and Radford (30) helped the visitors from Bishop's Stortford to a lowly 140-9 in their 40 overs.

The wickets were shared around the Buntingford bowlers, with five of seven used gaining at least one success, led by Karl White with 2-8 off his eight overs.

Martin Coote (22) and Chris Chambers (20) put the hosts in a winning position before Michael Townsend (18 not out) saw Buntingford home in the final over of the match.

- The Crow will continue its unrivalled coverage of local cricket throughout the 2006 season. Deadline remains at 9am on a Tuesday, and scorecards can be obtained in either electronic or paper versions by e-mailing sport@royston-crow.co.uk or phoning 01763 250222.