TWO controversial umpiring decisions halted Avoncroft Cricket Club First XI's run chase as they ended up with a losing draw at Old Vigornians.

Both Matt Hare and David James were dismissed via contentious LBW rulings in last Saturday's Worcestershire County League division four match, breaking up Croft's attempt at reaching 231.

Old Vigornians batted first and were kept to 20-1 from 15 overs were keep in check early on as Paul Croft's attack stuck to their task well, but the searing heat allowed the batsmen to pick off the bad balls as the bowlers began to tire.

Ott scored 55 and Fardon 45 as the hosts accelerated passed 200, but Athey (3-41), Nick Riley (2-54) and Jon Bird (2-45) put in good spells. Old Vigornians finished on 230-9.

Croft, who drop to fifth in the table, began their reply well as Rich Sinclair continued his rich vein of form that had seen hit a career-best 92 two weeks ago.

He dominated an opening stand with John Goode before losing his opening partner with the score on 45.

Hare received the first unlucky LBW decision shortly afterwards, leaving Croft struggling at 49-2. James came to the crease and with Sinclair, Croft looked as dominant as they had done all season.

The pair put on 68 in 11 overs before James (46) received an extremely dubious LBW decision to allow the hosts back into the game. Sinclair soon followed for 59 and the game turned in Old Vigornians' favour.

Jon Bird (24) and Luke Townsend (13) gave Croft chance with a sixth wicket partnership of 40, leaving the visitors needing 61 to win from the final ten overs.

Unfortunately, off-spinner Mendham dismissed both Bird and Townsend in successive balls, followed by two further wickets and Croft were left to bat for the draw, ending on 196-9.