Shropshire remain unbeaten after a draw

Ralph struck half-centuries in both innings and also delivered his best bowling figures for the county, in Berkshire's first innings at Newbury's Falkland ground.

Shropshire coach Karl Krikken said: "To score fifties in both innings and record his best bowling figures in the Championship is a great effort.

"Ralphy had a very good game with bat and ball, and he led the team really well again. We played very good controlled cricket, but just ran out of time.

"Had it been a four-day game, I think we would probably have won. But it's very encouraging for the future and I would imagine we will still be in the top three in the table."

Shropshire posted a competitive 330-9 in their first innings thanks to the efforts of Ralph, Ross Aucott (74 not out), Omar Ali (61) and Steve Leach (47).

Berkshire were then dismissed for 289, with Ralph claiming 5-50.

Shropshire built on their first innings advantage on the final day with Ralph maintaining his excellent form by making 72, as the visitors declared on 288-7.

That meant Berkshire were set a victory target of 330 from a minimum of 58 overs, but they opted for safety as they reached 155-4, with Shrewsbury spinner Charlie Morris bagging 3-26.

Brian Foxall, chairman of selectors, said: "We've produced three strong performances in the Championship.

"All the young lads in the side are gaining more experience and it bodes well for the future. We've got three winnable games to come, so who knows what might happen."

Shropshire, who have won one and drawn the other two of their three Championship games, hit the road again for their next three-day game.

They take on Dorset at Dean Park, Bournemouth on Sunday July 19.

Shropshire are also in action tomorrow when they take on an Invitation side, featuring ex-Test players Wasim Jaffer and Corey Collymore, at Wrekin College in the Resource Bank Challenge match (11am).