Bucks lost out by just 30 runs when they faced Australia in an over-60s game at Beaconsfield CC on Friday.

The touring side, who are gearing up for two one-day matches and a two-day test against England over-60s, were given a stern test of their credentials by a spirited Bucks team.

A closure on the M40 had held a number of the Aussie contingent up en route to the ground but they were soon motoring along when they batted first after the game had been reduced to 40 overs a side due to the delay.

Brisbane based batsman Ian Petherick struck a fluent 51 in a partnership of 91 with Dave Cordy before he retired after passing his half century.

Cordy followed him back to the pavilion after reaching the same score unbeaten with decent knocks from Murray Harrison (47), Pat Logue (28) and Colin Cooke (24) helping the visitors end on 235-4.

Alan Smith was the pick of the Bucks bowlers taking 2-20, while Chris Lowe proved economical in his five overs, conceding just 12 runs.

The Aussies struck early when they took to the field, removing John Rolfe for a duck in the first over of Bucks’ reply.

The hosts hit back in determined fashion with Dick Decaires making 34, Graham Keens chipping in with a brilliant 47, Brian Shipley adding 29 and John Pothecary striking an unbeaten 45.

Those innings helped Bucks reach a very creditable 205-6 but the tourist were left to toast victory when the sides sat down for dinner at the conclusion of the match.