Smith on song in defeat

6:07pm Monday 7th April 2008

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BEN Smith hit his second half-century in seven days as Worcestershire crashed to a nine-wicket defeat to Warwickshire at Edgbaston.

Smith, who had a fine knock of 79 against Leicestershire last Thursday, was unbeaten on 68 as the New Road side were bowled out for 217.

In their second 50-over pre-season friendly against the Bears, Ashley Giles' men set out their stall by dominating the County.

Neil Daggett had Steven Davies caught at second slip by Ian Westwood for just four before regular wickets meant Steve Rhodes' side failed to complete their 50 overs.

Darryl Mitchell was second top-scorer with 33, while skipper Vikram Solanki (30) and Moeen Ali (27) looked useful.

The hosts got off to a flying start in reply and Neil Carter was aggressive early on before he was bowled for 47 by Kabir Ali.

Darren Maddy reached his century from just 72 balls as the weather closed in with a mixture of sleet and rain.

Maddy (118 not out) completed a superb innings to bring the Bears victory by nine wickets from 22.3 overs. Westwood finished on 44no.