Wiltshire thank the rain

The Minor Counties match between Wiltshire and Devon at South Wilts Cricket Club ended in a draw when rain washed out the whole of the third day.

Wiltshire were put into bat after a late start on the first day and in overcast conditions struggled to score runs, as they reached 40 for five at one stage.

There followed a partnership of 56 between Eddie Abel (12) and captain James Hibberd (62) who did most of the scoring, but rain caused play to finish on the first day at tea with Wiltshire on 131 for six.

The second day saw Wiltshire all out for 150, with Rob Franklin scoring 23 as three wickets each for Trevor Anning, David Burke and Josh Bess put Devon in control.

In reply Devon were all out for 212 with opener Rob Holman scoring 91. Wiltshire’s Dudley Graham took 3-71, Hibberd claimed 2-21, Ben Walker took 2-53 and Rob Franklin had figures of 2-33.

Wiltshire started their second innings 62 runs behind with 24 overs remaining in the day and they lost five wickets before bad light stopped play with one over remaining and the score at 55.

Heavy rain on the third day prevented any further play and the match ended in a draw, with Wiltshire taking eight points and Devon having nine.