SURREY enjoyed a useful workout in the Parks, where they were denied victory by Oxford UCCE’s ninth-wicket pair, who survived the last 15 overs. The bowlers, who had shown signs of ringrust in the first innings, were much more threatening yesterday although Alex Tudor was not risked owing to muscle tightness in his back. He is expected to be fit for the opening Frizzell County Championship match against Sussex at the Oval on Friday when both Azhar Mahmood and Saqlain Mushtaq should be available.

Steve Rixon, Surrey’s new coach, professed himself well pleased with his players’ attitude since his arrival a fortnight ago. A three-day training camp near Colchester allowed the Australian and the playing staff to get to know each other. “The finish to 2003 left a bitter taste in a few people’s mouths, but I’ve found them a very harmonious group,” Rixon said. “I’m hoping that there are no major issues that need changing. I’ve tidied up a few things discipline-wise. I’m starting with a clean slate and will give everyone an equal opportunity.”

Rixon, who describes himself as a “hands-on” coach, will be giving every assistance to Jon Batty, the new captain. “Jon’s going to need a lot of help as I know from experience how tough his job will be, having kept wicket, gone in up the order and captained New South Wales myself,” he said.

Batty declared at lunch after losing wickets to some decent Oxford bowling, notably from Tim Linley, a medium pacer from the Airedale and Wharfedale League in Yorkshire. Another Yorkshireman, the left-handed Joe Sayers, who made 62 on his National League debut against Gloucestershire last September, impressed with a composed 56 from 119 balls. The rest of the batting was found wanting.