Leamington struggle despite beating the rain

Only two Birmingham League Premier Division matches survived, with Leamington missing a chance to steal a march on their rivals after being forced to settle for a losing draw at Himley.

Despite early pressure from Jason Young and Raiza Jabarkheil, Leamington were unable to capitalise on winning a vital toss and let the initiative slip through poor fielding and bowling.

The Himley pair of Chris Tranter (69) and Greg Wright (64) took full advantage, putting on an excellent 151 for the first wicket before Wright was stumped by Michael Balac off the bowling of Darrel Williams.

Tranter soon followed to James Uddin but Nathan Round (38 not out) and skipper Stuart Wedge (44 not out) continued the excellent work of the openers to allow Wedge to declare after 46 overs on 243 for two.

In reply, despite losing Balac early, David Bailey (41) and debutant Sam Cheshire (41) put on 74 for the second wicket to keep Leamington in the game.

Both departed in quick succession but the returning Luke Radford (65) and Uddin (33) maintained a steady run rate despite the fading light.

However, the excellent bowling of left-arm paceman Danny Smith (14-1-65-6) meant the total was always just out of reach and Leamington saw out their overs on 215 for eight.

Leamington 2nds also got a completed game in, losing by 48 runs at home to Walmley.

An unbeaten 67 from opener Imran Jamiel led Walmley to a competitive 149 for three in their 40 overs, with James Gethins’ 22 the only score of note as Leamington were bowled out for 101 in reply.

Leek Wootton 2nds find themselves already propping up Division Six of the Cotswold Hills League after their match was the only one to survive the heavy overnight rain.

The visitors picked up just one point after being bowled out for a paltry 47 and then seeing Bidford overhaul their total for the loss of three wickets.