It was billed as the Twenty20 University Match, but so wayward was Oxford's bowling in The Parks on Friday night that it was more like a Twenty-four20 contest.

The Dark Blues delivered 23 wides, contributing 39 runs to the tally of 50 extras, which was nearly double Cambridge's victory margin.

With no-balls added on, Oxford bowled an extra 26 deliveries as Cambridge reached 155 all out.

The Dark Blues, who had to bat one short due to a shoulder injury suffered by wicket-keeper Dan King, replied with 126.

King suffered the injury trying to stop a wide ball in the first over. That about summed up Oxford's evening.

Skipper Ollie Sadler refused to blame the revolutonary pink ball for his bowlers spraying it around.

"We just bowled poorly - no excuses," said Sadler.

"In the end, those extras were to prove crucial."

Sadler said that despite the defeat, it was an enjoyable occasion.

"It was great to play in front of such a large crowd and they appeared to enjoy themselves."

On a balmy evening, many of the 1000-plus spectators lay on the grass.

Each batsman walked out to their own choice of music, although the loud speakers were hardly at full volume.

Cambridge were clearly inspired by their selections which included themes from the Dambusters, Braveheart and Blackadder.

Oxford's more modern day mix included Fat Boy Slim's Rockafeller Skank and Good Charlotte's The Anthem.

On a night, which broke with tradition, it was the more traditional music that won the day!