Western Stars smashed the highest total of the season — 367 for five — as they began the defence of their Central Counties title with a 168-run victory over Devonshire Recreation Club in the first round at St John’s Field on Saturday.

After winning the toss, Stars were led to their big total by cousins Jaiden Manders and Tre Manders while Brian Hall was outstanding with both bat and ball as Rec replied with 199 in 39.3 overs.

Jaiden scored 111 from eight fours while Tre supported with 86, also off eight boundaries. Hall chipped in with 52 not out from five sixes and two fours while Ryan Tyrrell scored 32 off 20 balls with four fours. Dalin Richardson, the Bermuda Under-19 captain, added 26 from three boundaries.

Lavar Talbot was the pick of the Rec bowlers with three for 61 off ten overs.

Keneik Wallen was the top bat for Rec with 47, after coming in at No 6 and smashing five sixes and two fours in just 21 balls while opener Oladapo Frederick scored 39 off six fours. Talbot scored 34 and tail-ender Jodi Maroni 28 from 12 balls, with 26 of his runs coming in boundaries from three sixes and two fours.

Hall led the Stars bowling with four for 25 from 11.3 overs while Tre Manders and Swayne Campbell both took two wickets apiece.

Stars will meet Tuff Dogs in the second round this Saturday.