Rain 2 Cricketers 0

Following last week's mauling by top of the table Appleton, Audlem's XI were hoping to earn some valuable points in the match against fellow relegation candidates Eastham.

Despite the rain over the last few days the covers on the wicket had done their job and play started on time. Skipper Steve Swallow had won the toss and asked Eastham to bat. They got off to a cracking start scoring 50 without loss off the first eight overs. Then Audlem's bowlers began to get the upper hand and soon had two wickets on the board before rain forced the players off and the covers back on. Some thirty minutes later play resumed with the bowlers retaining the momentum as Eastham struggled to score. Just as the third wicket fell the rain returned to stop play again after 22 overs. Once again the covers returned to the square.

In an effort to save the match, tea was taken early, after which play resumed for a third time. Soon afterwards rain began to fall again. Despite both sides agreeing to play on in these miserable conditions, once the rain became heavy there was nothing that could be done to save the game and both captains agreed to call the game off with the score at 102 for 4. Audlem's wicket takers were Hugh Ratcliffe (3 for 59) and Stuart Elkes (1 for 33). Both teams finished with 5 points.

The 2nd XI's match at Kerridge was called off on Friday night with the pitch waterlogged. Once again both teams were awarded five points.

Next Saturday both teams play Grange. The 2nd XI play at home whilst the 1st XI make the journey up to Warrington.

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