Melton Mowbray CC chase foiled by rain after Fourie century

Melton Mowbray CC are more than 30 points clear at the top of Division Three. From left, back - Ben Redwood, Paul Stevenson, James Cusack, Joe Peveritt, Carel Fourie, Gaz Potter, Simon Claricoates; front - Carl Parker, Mike Roberts, Pete Humphries, Jamie Tew. EMN-190618-103407002

With many matches failing to start, Melton Mowbray CC posted 259-6, but rain returned before opponents Ketton Sports could begin their inning.

In-form all-rounder Fourie was the star of the show for the County League Division Three leaders, accumulating an unbeaten 111 to help the hosts take a maximum five batting points from the match.

Their 10-point total haul helped Melton stretch their advantage over closest challengers Shree Sanatan to 33 points.

This Saturday Melton face a short trip as they head to third-placed Barkby United Second XI.

Barkby United’s hopes of a second win of the Premier Division campaign were foiled by the rain.

Needing points to move out of the relegation places, Barkby bowled out visitors Lutterworth for just 150, a total which would have failed to reach three figures without 65 extras.

Ryan Waplington was the pick of the Barkby bowlers, taking 5 for 38, while Aiden Morris and Jamie Drake took two wickets apiece.

But rain then ended the match before Barkby could begin their chase.