THE Travelbag Surrey Championship got underway on Saturday. Promoted Farnham lost to a strong Spencer side in their first match back in Division One, but promoted Churt won in Division Four and Haslemere were victorious in Division Five.

Farnham, short of recognised bowlers, struggled to contain Spencer at the Park and the visitors posted 288-9, with the talented Krishna Sivakumaran just missing his century.

Farnham debutant Toby Davies looked solid and Joel Walker batted with his usual flair, but the run-rate was soon climbing and wickets tumbled as batsmen took risks. Farnham were all out in the final over for 160, with Luke Ryan taking 3-21 in his 10 overs.

Overseas player Ben Mitchell was ruthless against a modest Horsley & Send attack and plundered 160, including five sixes, as Churt amassed 285-6 in their 50 overs.

Horsley were well placed at 129-3, but their bid for an unlikely victory ended when opener Shacaya Thomas was dismissed by Rowley Marshall for 85. The visitors were bowled out for 209.

Scott Boxall dominated Haslemere’s innings at Old Emanuel, making a fine 62 out of a total of 183-9.

Old Emanuel never really recovered from losing their openers cheaply to Billy Boxall. Chris Spooner picked up 3-30 and the home side were dismissed for 141.

Farnham 2nd XI, promoted to the Premier Division, lost to Spencer II.