A stunning display from captain Ed Foster helped Shropshire to a superb triumph at Northumberland to put one foot in the MCCA Trophy quarter-finals.

Foster made an unbeaten 126 – all the more remarkable as the match was reduced to 26 overs per side because of rain – as Shropshire eased to a 61-run triumph at Jesmond.

It means they have won both their group matches and, with two round-robin games remaining, are well placed to reach the last eight as they bid to defend their crown as the kings of Minor Counties one-day cricket.

“It was a long old trip up there and it was the early hours of the morning when we got back – but it was worth it,” said Foster.

“To beat a Northumberland side, who are one of the best in the country, and do it quite comfortably was very satisfying.

“We managed to post an above average total and then we bowled and fielded exceptionally.”

After a delayed start until 1pm, Shropshire managed just eight balls of their innings – in which they lost Jono Whitney – before torrential rain arrived.

Play didn’t resume until 4pm but Foster made up for lost time as he brilliantly set the tone for his side.

Offering only one chance shortly after he reached his century, Foster carried his bat through his side’s innings to help post an imposing 208-7.

The left hander struck 15 fours and one six in his 86-ball innings which also featured a 91-run third wicket partnership with his brother Rob, who made 21.

On a day when the withdrawals of Jonty Mountford and Mark Downes meant appearances for Bridgnorth teenager Jack Edwards and Whitchurch’s Richard Oliver filling the 12th man duties, Northumberland failed to respond to the scoreboard pressure.

Shrewsbury allrounder Joe Leach claimed the early wicket of opener Mark Dale but the big trouble for the home side came when the score reached 37.

Dan Bowen struck twice in as many balls to dismiss Gary Scott and Andrew Cragg, and the Shrewsbury paceman had a hand in claiming a third wicket on the same score when he instigated the run-out of Danny Shurben.

Tight spells from spin duo Rob Foster and Andy Gray, who each took a wicket, reduced Northumberland to 87-8.

And, while there were late cameos from David Rutherford and Phil Nicholson, Northumberland fell well short on 147-8 to ensure it was a happy trip for Shropshire.

By JAMES GARRISON