REDDITCH Entaco returned to winning ways with a four-wicket success over Lye to stay 37 points clear at the top of Worcester County League Division Two.

In what proved a remarkable game, it looked as though Redditch would be put to the sword as Lye’s opening partnership piled on the runs.

Raja Shakeel Nawaz struck a splendid 127 and together with opening partner Zafar Iqbal, who added only 27, put on 180 for the first wicket.

But once Nawaz was removed, Lye completely collapsed and were rapidly bowled out for 211 in the 45th over.

Tom Phelan was the pick of the Redditch attack with five for 33, which included the key wicket of Nawaz.

Redditch chairman Daren Field claimed: “Lye reached the 180 mark after 30 overs and we looked to be going nowhere. But once we removed the openers, they had nothing else.

“Dan Protherough came on at the end and picked up two wickets without conceding a run off five balls. To be honest, he bowled rubbish.

“His first delivery must have bounced at least twice and both his wickets came off full tosses!

Redditch rarely looked in danger when they replied.

Skipper Greg Chinn led the way with 73, while solid support came from Russ Southwick 55, Tom Field 29 and Yassar Altaf 25 as they reached a winning 211 for six in the 45th over Redditch look to continue their excellent form when they travel to Enville on Saturday (noon start).