But the stand was to prove the most deceptive of false dawns. Blameless Wells, whose 34 included a majestic straight six, could only watch in horror as his crop of underachievers buckled with the bat once more.

Aside from the skipper, only Alvey (15) made it into double figures, former Surrey bowler Tony Murphy took advantage of the testing, but playable wicket.

Murphy followed up his previous week's match winning 7 for 19 against Egham with 4 for 12 against Park, who are already being touted as relegation fodder.

q Worcester Park First XI require a scorer for their Surrey Championship Division Two matches on Saturdays. The club is also keen to attract new players of all ages and abilities. For more information contact Oli Burley on 020 8337 2338 (evenings).