Oxford fell to a seven-wicket defeat in Division 1 at High Wycombe, who were steered to victory by an unbeaten century from former Oxfordshire and Banbury batsman Nathan Hawkes.

Ian Crosby saw his side restricted to 204-8 off their 50 overs after he had elected to bat first.

Stewart Laudat was the mainstay of the innings, before he was bowled by Russell Curzon-Thompson for 59 off 97 balls, with nine fours.

And, with the score still on 125, debutant Barney Moreton became the fifth wicket to fall when he went for a duck.

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Crosby provided some impetus with 40, but Oxford were unable to really cut loose.

Will Rooney struck an early blow in High Wycombe’s reply by bowling Adam Hose.

But Benning then smashed 33 off 12 balls, taking a particular liking to new recruit Ed Smith, whose four overs went for 47, before he was caught by Brad Sutherland off Mendis.

The Oxford leg-spinner, who took 2-23 from his ten overs, struck again to have Baker caught behind by Michael Bates to leave Wycombe 108-3.

But that was as good as it got for Oxford, with skipper Hawkes being joined by George Russell (36no) to steer Wycombe home with almost 14 overs to spare.

The Wycombe captain finished with 100 not out from 107 deliveries, with 17 fours.