IN another week badly affected by rain only one match was completed in SweetFuels CDCA Division One.

Incredibly, after eight weeks of the season, defending champions Barnsley Beeches have finished only two games and sit squarely in the relegation zone.

The completed match was highly significant since it led to a second defeat in a row for early pace-setters Cricklade this time at the hands of in-form Oaksey who now leap-frog their visitors to occupy second spot in the league behind Adlestrop.

Cricklade put their hosts in to bat and started well by taking three early wickets. However, an excellent partnership between Ben Langridge (44) and debutant Chris Sparrow (41) put Oaksey in a strong position. A late flurry of boundaries allowed the hosts to post a decent total of 172-7, probably worth a few more due to the decidedly lush outfield.

In reply, Cricklade, chasing a revised target of 152 off 33 overs due to a rain break, started strongly. However, the run out of the prolific Tom Davies proved to be crucial.

A period of consolidation followed as the Oaksey opening bowlers gave little away and the required run-rate increased. The Oaksey change bowlers then capitalised as more risks were taken and Dan Bye (4-18) bowled particularly well. Ade Prim (3-33) chipped in with key wickets as only opening batsman Paul Paginton (35) threatened the Oaksey total.

Some excellent fielding and catching wrapped up the Cricklade innings at 106 all out which gave the hosts a comfortable win.

The matches at Oakridge and Sherston were both abandoned early due to heavy rain. Longborough & Sezincote were unable to raise a side and had to forfeit their match at Avening & Cherington.