Rain ruins start of Shropshire's Counties clash

Rain ruined the opening day of their Minor Counties Championship clash with Dorset.

Only 45 minutes was possible as the black clouds hung over Bridgnorth Cricket Club yesterday, after Shropshire stuttered to 25-2 before play was eventually called off at tea.

With drier weather forecast the hope is play can run through to 7.30pm today, as Shropshire bid to maintain their 100 per cent start to the season.

Joe Clarke and Steve Leach will resume at the crease with their captain challenging them to lay some quick foundations.

Oliver said: "It will be good to see the boys performing under pressure and I have no doubt the lads can show what they are made of.

"We are going to try and set up a winning position for day three. With the early start and late finish, we are still looking at 250 overs so we're hoping that's enough to get a result.

"To be fair, it was a good toss for Dorset to win in the conditions and they made the most of it. But you can still lose two wickets on a hot day so we're not too disappointed."

Oliver, himself, didn't last long as he was dismissed by Dorset opening bowler Rupes Kitzinger for two.

And there was disappointment for young Shifnal debutant George Collins, when he was trapped leg before wicket by the same bowler.

Oliver said: "It was a bit unfortunate for George, but I told him that all the best batsmen get out first ball.

"It was one of those things, but it won't affect him and he will be confident of getting a score for us in the second innings."

Leach and Clarke dug in for the next six overs, sharing four boundaries.