GREAT & Little Tew began the Home Counties Premier League season with a nail-biting win over Henley in Division 1.

But there was no opening-day joy in Division 2 for Shipton-under-Wychwood, who lost at home to Aston Rowant.

Tew were put into bat by visitors Henley and opener Jordan Garrett top-scored with 77 as all the home side’s batsmen chipped in with runs for their 242-8.

Henley looked on the ropes at 165-7 as Ian Bryan (3-39) and Andy Harris (3-55) struck, but the tail wagged to get the visitors to 232.

But with only four balls remaining, Harris caught Monty Singh off Robbie Shurmer to seal victory.

Gt & Little Tew 20pts, Henley 8

Shipton slumped to an 87-run defeat, which was on the cards when Aston Rowant’s openers shared in a superb partnership worth 132.

Thomas Condon (80) and George Reid (63) made Charles Brain regret putting them into bat.

Both eventually fell to Aditya Rai, but Rowant skipper Josh Smith built on the solid platform with an unbeaten 58, which came off 50 balls.

Chasing 283 for victory, the hosts were in big trouble at 55-6 as Gordon Harris (4-30) and Wes Morrick (3-17) starred.

Resistance came in the form of Shaun Cross, who hit 39 not out to add to his 3-61, but the chase looked forlorn well before they were all out for 195 in the 45th over.

Shipton 7pts, Aston Rowant 20