Match in the balance before rain intervenes

Rain prevented a vital result between Denmark and Mt Barker in round 2 of the Albany Cricket Association A-grade competition, with both clubs forced to settle for sharing the points in controversial circumstances.

Rain halted the match continuing for 15 more required balls to achieve a result via the Duckworth-Lewis method, with the contest in the balance before it was abandoned.

A minimum of 25 overs constitutes a match for the Duckworth-Lewis method to take effect but players were forced from the field with the Magpies 2-104 from 22.3 overs, chasing a target of 236 for victory.

Players were unable to return to the field because of the conditions, with both clubs awarded three points each.

With the wet conditions making the task of bowling difficult for the Bulls, the Magpies through Ryan Gaerth and Hayden Collard blasted 30 runs from the final 15 balls before rain forced the players from the field, which eventually ended the contest.

Gaerth’s impressive knock of 58 not out included six boundaries and a six.

The Bulls had set an imposing 235 from their 45 overs, thanks largely to a whirlwind 83 from Alec Haskins, who transferred from Narrikup on a match day permit.

Haskins’ entertaining knock included seven boundaries and four sixes and received vital support from veteran Graeme Wright (31) in a 70-run stand for the sixth wicket after the Bulls were reduced to 5-121 in the 26th over.

English import Jujhar Johal removed Haskins on his way to figures of 3-51, while left-armer Matt Ellul (2-32) snared openers Alex Fergie (21) and Nathan Crosby (17).