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Day 1: Pollard starts up with air of authority

David Green in The Parks

First day of three: Worcs 284-6 v Oxford Univ

Worcestershire, having been put in on a firm pitch in the Parks, were given some solid middle practice by an Oxford side who bowled tidily and fielded cleanly.

Last season Worcestershire never found a settled opening partner for Phil Weston, but former Notts opener Paul Pollard could fit the bill. Pollard (60), and Weston (83) produced a stand of 124.

The best of the day, however, came from David Leatherdale, whose 71 came off 101 balls and included 10 fours. Oxford's three seamers, David Eadie and left-arm pair Dean Kino and David Mather, commanded respect but off-spinner Tom Hicks was the pick. Hicks's victims were Pollard, caught at cover, and Vikram Solanki, bowled by one which floated past the outside edge.

Day 2: Students skittled by debutant

David Green

Second day of three: Worcs (284-6 dec & 135-2) lead Oxford Univ (81) by 338 runs.

Jason de la Pena, previously with Gloucestershire, Surrey, Middlesex and Kent, took a career-best six for 18 with rapid outswing on his Worcestershire debut as the University were shot out for 81 on a true pitch.

Worcestershire, 203 ahead, opted for batting practice on a warm, sunlit evening. Vikram Solanki relished the decision, punishing some dispirited bowling for an unbeaten 64, his fifty coming off 48 balls and including 12 fours.

At 26, the tall de la Pena's physique has strengthened greatly since his Gloucestershire days when he was distinctly willowy. His time there, plus his subsequent travels, brought him only eight first-class wickets in eight matches, but he has always had potential.

Before play yesterday he said: ``I've grown up. I'm stronger now and more confident.'' His bowling reflected this, with pace, a fullish length and away swing.