Oxford made a winning start to their Serious Cricket Home Counties Premier League Division 2 West campaign with a 53-run victory over Cove.

After losing the toss and being put into bat in overcast conditions in the 50-over match, the visitors lost Oxfordshire batsman Jamie Perkin early on.

The wicket only served to bring Stewart Laudat to the crease and the veteran stroke-maker quickly rolled back the years with a series of crisp drives and trademark whips through square leg.

He put on a stand of 105 for the second wicket with new signing Vishal Perera (41).

Laudat was eventually dismissed for 50, his knock coming off 65 balls with six fours.

After a short rain delay, the Oxford innings was given added impetus from captain Ian Crosby, who struck a brutal 77 not out from just 54 balls, with nine fours and a huge six, to lead Oxford to 253-6 from their 50 overs.

Cove’s reply got off to a quick start with former Banbury batsman Tom Smith benefitting from several dropped catches on his way to 33.

Star off-spinner Shami Mendis then suffered an ankle injury which prevented him from bowling and Oxford’s strong position looked to be slipping.

However, tight spells from seam bowlers Tom Godsell and Brad Sutherland swung the game back in Oxford’s favour.

Spinner Francois Vainker struggled for rhythm, but chipped in with four wickets, while former Warwickshire quickie Stuart Hole increased the pressure on the hosts.

Najeeb Malik offered brave resistance with an aggressive 56, but when he was run out by the impressive Godsell, Cove were all out for 200.