Robbie Nicholson hit an unbeaten half century as Oxfordshire Under 15s got their season off to a winning start with a friendly victory at Northants.

Oxon batted first and posted a respectable 213-7 on a wicket which always offered the bowlers some encouragement.

Nicholson's super knock led the way, but he received good support from Michael Beard.

Nigel Hume also chipped in with useful runs.

Northants set about the run chase well with Chris Cunningham looking dangerous until he was brilliantly run out by Jonathan Bouchier.

From then on, tight bowling from Jamie Coles and Michael Beard, combined with some excellent fielding, meant that Northants were always just behind the run rate, closing on 206-8.