Kaufman saves Oxfordshire

Wiltshire were unable to force a victory over Oxfordshire despite a magnificent all-round display from Wes Durston

Richard Kaufman hit a vital unbeaten century as Oxfordshire produced a defiant performance to salvage a draw against Wiltshire in the Minor Counties Championship match at Trowbridge.

Having been set 362 to win in a minimum of 80 overs, Oxfordshire looked set for defeat when last man James Phillips strode out to join Kaufman with seven overs still remaining.

However, the pair successfully negotiated the remaining overs and Kaufman finished on 130 not out in a total of 260 for nine.

Wiltshire had initially posted 389 for nine in their first innings, Wes Durston top-scoring with a superb 150.

Greg Lamb added 94 for the hosts, while Keith Arnold claimed 4-72 for Oxfordhire, becoming their leading wicket-taker in championship cricket in the process.

Oxfordshire reached 250 for nine from 90 overs in reply thanks to useful contributions from Richard West (68) and skipper Ian Hawtin (57).

Opener Jon Chandler then cracked 66 and Durston added 49 as Wiltshire declared their second innings on 222 for six.

But although they then reduced the visitors to 27 for four, Kaufman’s fine innings ensured Oxfordshire escaped with a draw.

Wiltshire’s failure to win was particularly harsh on Durston, who added five second innings wickets to his 199 runs in the match.

The 28-year-old did have the honour of receiving his county cap during the match.