Wem extend their lead

While four matches - including fellow title challengers Ludlow's clash with relegation threatened Broseley - were abandoned without a ball being bowled, Wem squeezed in a 25-over per side game against Oswestry.

A winning draw ensured them 12 points and took them 17 clear of Ludlow with just three games remaining.

Batting first, Wem made 127-6, with Will Savage top scoring with an unbeaten 56 and batting through the innings.

Despite 32 from Tim Brierley, Oswestry were soon behind the rate and eventually finished on 73-6, Mark Ellis claiming 4-22.

"I got to the ground at 10.20am and we worked hard on making it playable after the rain and managed to get going at 3.35pm," said Raine, who revealed his side are almost certain to make the move up to the Birmingham League if they claim the title.

"We agreed with Oswestry to play a shortened game and I was pleased with the performance. Will batted really well and we were all able to play around him and get a decent total.

"Rasika bowled very well at the start, conceding just 14 runs off eight overs, and we were able to put them under pressure and dictate the game.

"We are in a strong position now and it's ours to lose. If we can't get the points we require between now and the end of the season, we don't deserve to go up."

The only other action of the day came at Perkins who were left celebrating a first Proactive League derby success over rivals Shelton.

The works side produced a near perfect batting display, scoring 199-1 off their 40 overs with John Wigley unbeaten on 71, Mal Serplett scoring 64 and Darren Bullock 49 not out.

And despite Eugene McCarney's 27 Perkins maintained their vice-like grip on the game with the ball, dismissing Shelton for 125 with six wickets falling to Gary Williams.

"We have had a few close shaves with them but this was the first time we have got home against Shelton since they came in the League so we were chuffed," said Australian skipper Serplett.

By James Garrison