New recruit Jeff Higgs hit a superb century on his Horspath 4th debut in a 34-run defeat at Little Gaddesden in Cherwell League Division 6C.
The former Tiddington batsman made a classy 103 as the visitors fell short on 226-8 in reply to the Hertfordshire side's 260-4 after they chose to bat.
He was well supported by skipper Craig Wharton (37) and Ben Wise (35) before Horspath's run chase fell away.
It was Higgs's first Cherwell ton since he made an unbeaten 100 for Tiddington 2nd against Witney Mills in 2015.
Earlier, opener Jeremy Fennell (110) and James Meacock (60) had shone for Little Gaddesden as Adrian Manger picked up 2-47.
The side are at home to Bledlow Ridge 2nd, who lost to Bradenham by 121 runs, on Saturday.