OLD Hill’s rich run of form was brought to an abrupt halt at Barnards Green when they suffered a heavy 182-run reverse.

Having reduced Malvern-based Barnards Green to 91 for six at one stage, the Haden Hill side were undone by rising talent Josh Tongue, who proceeded to take the bowling attack apart.

Tongue had just been handed a contract by Worcestershire and showed why by scoring 150, helping Barnards Green reach a huge total of 334 for nine.

Old Hill skipper Danny Cox admitted: “Josh Tongue played really well and he took the game away from us. He’s 17 and has got real potential.”

It didn’t help that left arm spinner and leading wicket taker Nigel Davenport was unavailable on wedding duty.

And Old Hill’s reply was hampered further when Danny Cox had to leave the crease after just three deliveries suffering from an injured thumb.

Cox did return later in the innings to help Old Hill obtain a bonus point – but they were eventually bowled out for 152.

Cox claimed: “The fact Nigel Davenport wasn’t available does make a massive difference to our bowling attack.

“He’s already taken 51 wickets this season and is hard to replace.”

Davenport should be back for this Saturday’s short trip to Bromsgrove.

Cox is also confident he’ll be fit to play as Old Hill attempt to get their promotion challenge back on track.

Saturday’s defeat to Barnards Green has seen them slip to third place.

Leaders Walsall are now looking well on course to take the title while the battle for second spot remains wide open with five games to play.