Cricket decimated by the weather

RAIN decimated the Warrington cricket programme, with more matches wiped out than ever in a season already blighted by the weather.
Grappenhall’s chances of winning promotion back to the Chapel Press Cheshire County League Premier Division suffered another setback, with their game at Sale abandoned after the home side had score 80-4, Jason Smith taking 3-37.
League leaders Bowdon won, so widened the gap that Grappers must close to take the title.
But they are still placed second with a healthy lead over the chasing pack, so promotion is still on the cards.
Warrington’s bid to move up from division three were dealt a cruel blow as they were well set for victory over Malpas at Walton Lea when the rains came.
The visitors were bowled out for 145, mainly thanks to Kyle Adams, who took 7-72.
Warrington were looking good on 127-3 when the game was abandoned. Malcolm Agar hit 58 and Richard Heaney 47.
Grappenhall 2nd hit 171-6 at Broad Lane, Mike Sambell scoring 69, against Alderley Edge. The visitors were 84-4 when the match had to be abandoned. Mike Holden took 3-37.
Grappenhall 3rd suffered a heavy defeat against Nantwich, who batted first and hit 231-8. Ian Hall took 4-40.
But when Grappers batted they were tumbled out for 57 – of which Hall scored 21.
In the Meller Braggins Cheshire League, Stretton were beaten at home by Cheadle Hulme Ladybridge.
The visitors won the toss and batted, reaching 156-8. Stretton were dismissed for 122.
Lymm Oughtrington Park appeared to be on course for victory at Kingsley when the home side were bowled out for 96. But Lymm – who had decided to bowl first on winning the toss – collapsed to 71 all out.
In the Cheshire Alliance, Appleton 4 managed to complete their game against Offerton – but lost by five wickets.
Appleton were dismissed for 92 and Jim Warham’s 3-13 was not enough to stop Offerton coasting to 93-5.