Oxfordshire's Development XI got their season off to a fine start with a two-wicket victory over Middlesex Academy at Radley College.

Oxon fielded seven debutants from the successful under 17 squad of last year.

Middlesex batted first, but some fine bowling from Tom Geeson-Brown, Amin Rafiq and Nat Watkins, all new faces, helped restrict them to 166-9 from 50 overs.

David Smith was the pick of the Oxon bowlers 4-34 from his ten overs.

In reply, Oxon kept up with the required rate, helped by useful knocks from Shahbaz Alam and skipper Richard West.

But with 36 needed with only five overs left, Middlesex looked favourites.

Josh Smith thought otherwise, however, and his 35 not out saw Oxon home.