THE touring Australian Victoria State team ran out comfortable 65-run winners over a depleted Worcestershire side in an over 70s match at Kidderminster.

In a warm-up prior to playing an England select team, the Aussies decided to bat first and amassed 236- 6 off 45 overs on a fine pitch.

Man-of-the-match Rob Wilson struck 52 off 53 balls, Neville Crane 50 off 50 and Col Hutchesson 50 off 62.

Graham Cuddon added 22 not out and wicketkeeper Phill Higgins was run-out for 28.

All the batsmen played the ball late and displayed sound back-foot techniques, plundering anything short with a savagery which belied their advancing years.

The Worcestershire bowlers struggled with the blustery conditions but fought back well and a score of 236 looked about par for the wicket.

Skipper George Batty (3-46) and Brian Norfolk were the pick of the bowlers.

The quick loss of early wickets made the run chase difficult and, despite a solid 37 from John Matthews and a fighting 52 retired from John Brookes including a big six, the target proved too much.

Entertaining knocks from Roger Price and Martin Mudway made the result more respectable as the County finished on 171-8.

Bob Hopkins only conceded 12 runs in his six overs and Gordon Abraham secured 4-46 with slow bowler Wilson chipping in with 3-9.