OXFORDSHIRE fell to an 18-run defeat at the hands of Buckinghamshire in yesterday’s 50-over pre-season friendly.

The visitors set a competitive 247-7 at Aston Rowant CC, before dismissing Oxon for 229 in the 49th over.

Despite taking an early wicket, Oxon were unable to make real inroads into their rivals, Joe Butcher the pick of their bowlers with 2-32 off eight overs.

Shahbaaz Alam and skipper Jonny Cater starred with the bat for Oxfordshire, but it proved in vain.

Opener Alam hit 81 off 84 balls, while Cater scored 65, but despite being in good shape midway through their innings, wickets fell regularly late on.