Nigel Hume compiled a magnificent century as he helped Oxfordshire Under 17s to an 85-run victory over their Under 16 counterparts in a friendly at East & West Hendred on Bank Holiday Monday.

Hume, an under 16, had been moved up to the under 17s due to an injury to regular opener Stafford Sansome, and he took full advantage in a superb innings, which contained 15 boundaries.

When he finally fell, the under 17s were poised to post a big score, and so it proved as they closed on 290-6 from their 50 overs.

Useful contributions also came from Jonny Bourchier and captain Edmund Gross, while newcomer Elliott Graham shone with the ball, taking 3-59.

In their reply, the under 16s gave an encouraging performance, which suggests they should be a force to be reckoned with themselves this season.

Although losing opener Vishane Perera early, there were plenty of runs to be had on an excellent batting track.

Harry Smith produced an entertaining innings which included two identical sixes, while Sam Ryan, Richard Cook and Michael Beard also impressed.

Pick of the bowlers was leg spinner Richard Simpson, who returned fine figures of 4-40.

The under 16s reached 205-9 in their 50 overs, but, up against an older age group, it was a more than encouraging start to the season.