FORMER Worcester City goalkeeper Paul Wyatt demonstrated his cricket ability with an impressive 171 for Rushwick Seconds.

The 34-year-old helped bottom-ofthe- table Rushwick to a winning draw against fellow strugglers Enville Seconds in a rain-affected match.

The hard-hitting Wyatt admitted he was disappointed to miss out on eclipsing his personal-best — he has twice reached 176 — once while playing for Old Elizabethans.

Wyatt is the latest Worcester News cricketer of the week and receives a £25 voucher from Fearnley Factory Shop.

It is the second time the sportsman has won the accolade after bludgeoning 176 not out for Rushwick seconds against Birlingham in August 2007.

Saturday’s result was an improvement for Rushwick Seconds, who have not yet secured an outright win in the league this term.

However, Rushwick are 86 points adrift at the bottom of Worcestershire League Division One Second XI with four matches remaining.

“I have twice got to 176 and I was disappointed to be out for 171,” admitted Wyatt, who struck 26 fours and six sixes.

“I have not been in particularly good form this season but Saturday was an innings when everything seemed to click into place for me.

“It was my first century for several seasons and I have to admit I had my visions on double century.

“When we came off the field due to rain I was on 147 and, at one point, we needed 80 to win off eight overs and I counted every run.

“I played across the line to a straight ball and was bowled and I was upset with myself for getting out like that.”

A fine 101 from opener Simon Perkins led Enville to an imposing 286-9 and Wyatt arrived at the crease at the loss of Rushwick’s first wicket.

Despite several interruptions caused by rain, Wyatt remained dominant and, backed by Jake Williams (26) and Tate Ellison (18 not out), Rushwick replied with 264-6 from 36 overs.

Wyatt said: “I can only play cricket every other week and I can only play at home or if the game is close to Worcester due to my job and other commitments,”

said Wyatt, who works for Royal Mail.

“I have not played many games for the second team this season because I have booked a bit of holiday so that I could be available for mostly first team matches.

“That was my first game for the seconds for a while but it’s a nice mix of seniors and up-and-coming young players.”