KIDDERMINSTER Cricket Club today defended themselves after their Birmingham League Premier Division clash with Old Hill was controversially abandoned.

The game was called off because of rain after 13 overs with Old Hill on 24-1 -- but the visitors claim Kidderminster made little attempt to make the pitch playable.

It rained for 30 minutes. Work on the wicket was delayed and play was called off at 5.30pm.

Kidderminster vice-president Brian Gittins said parts of the square were very damp, and added: "Apart from a helicopter and a hot-air dryer I don't believe we could have done anything about it.

"We were just as eager as Old Hill to play the game because we need the points as well."

Old Hill believe they should have been awarded the victory saying no attempt was made to clear the playing surface of water.