Avoncroft 167-5

Lye 149-6

CAPTAIN Paul Athey produced a devastating spell with the ball to get Avoncroft back on track in the Worcestershire League Division Three on Saturday.

Athey proved to be 'Croft's main threat with the ball as he took 5-68 in 18 overs.

However, despite the captain's efforts Avoncroft could only obtain a winning draw, as table topping Lye's batting order managed to hang on in a game that was cut short by the rain.

After losing the toss Avoncroft was put into bat and struggled early on to make an impact as they were reduced to 28-2.

Dave James (36) and Jon Bird (37) though managed to turn the game around with a 75 partnership, before they were dismissed in successive overs to leave 'Croft on 116-4.

Delay

After a two hour delay because of rain Avoncroft returned to the crease with the game reduced to 35 overs for each side.

With only five overs left 'Croft had to increase the run rate and Mark Whitehead (33) and Jon Crowther (13) set about guiding their side to 167-5.

Athey's side needed to make an early breakthrough and the captain provided it - dismissing opener Ishtiaq for five runs.

Lynch (53) though proved to be a threat, before James caught him off Crowther's delivery.

The captain ripped through Lye's middle order, dismissing Perks (43), Stanaway (3) and Whitehouse (2).

Crowther, who took 4-20, then removed Barber (2) and Rushton (0) to give his side a chance of victory.

However, Lye tailender Raza (0) survived the final two balls to give Avoncroft's opponents a share of the points.

Athey said: "It was only near the end we thought we had a chance of winning, but I was pleased to get a winning draw against a good side like Lye."

Avoncroft take on Stourbridge at home on Saturday (1.30pm start).

* Nick Riley is set to start his first game of the season for 'Croft on Saturday at home to Stourbridge.

Riley topped Division Three's bowling charts with an average of 11.11 runs a wicket.