KIDDERMINSTER clinched an 18 run success over Shropshire side Shifnal as they opened their Birmingham League campaign by advancing into the next stage of the Williamson Trophy.

Nathan Round fell agonisingly short of a century when dismissed on 96 as Kidderminster posted a positive total of 198 four.

Callum Bennett offered Round support with an unbeaten 38 not out to help push the target beyond Shifnal's grasp in reply as they could only reach 180 for eight in reply.

Kidderminster will now progress to face Knowle and Dorridge in the next round who were boosted by the inclusion of West Indies star Carlos Brathwaite in their ranks as they overwhelmed Moseley.

Barnt Green made a commanding start to the defence of their title with an easy eight wicket win over West Bromwich Dartmouth.

Darrel Williams claimed three for 30 with the ball while Robbie Shurmer snapped up  three for 32 as Dartmouth were dismissed for a way below par total of 120 all  out.

Ben Champman-Lilley and Amrinder Brar both scored 47 in reply as the Green cantered home with ease and will now face a Worcestershire  Academy XI in the next stage.

The Academy underlined their potential by putting paid to last season's Premier Two title winners Halesowen with a 35 run success.

Himley's Ollie Walker stole the show for the Academy by scoring a superb 132 not out.

Walker put on 121 for the opening stand with Dartmouth's Ismail Mohammed who made 48.

Halesowen were never up with the asking rate in reply but were given a glimmer of hope with a  seventh wicket stand of 54 between James Rudge with 31 and Harry Baddams who added 30 before the innings finally closed on 200 all out.

Halesowen will have it all to do this Saturday when they commence their Birmingham League Premier One programme  with a trip to reigning champions Berkswell.

Barnt Green will entertain Kenilworth Warden while Kidderminster play hosts to  Shrewsbury.

Bromsgrove begin their Premier Two  competition with a trip into the unknown by travelling to play off winners Worfield who are based just outside Bridgnorth while Himley host another Shrophire side Wem at Stourbridge Road.