WEATHER on the first day spoiled Cumberland’s chances of victory over Hertfordshire in their three-day match at Sedbergh School.

Only 24 overs were played on day one after Cumberland won the toss and put Hertfordshire into bat, the away side recording 61-1 by the end of play.

On the second day play only began at 4.30pm but there was still time for Carnforth pro Toby Bulcock to bowl 4-57 as Hertfordshire were dismissed for 158.

Cumberland, containing Netherfield wicketkeeper John Huck and bowler Chris Williams, were only able to bat for six overs and finished day two 17-0.

James Lowe and Josh Tolley put on a partnership of 160 before Lowe was bowled LBW for 89.

Barrow batter Jonathan Miles, captain Gary Pratt and Alex Atkinson were unable to add a significant score to go with Tolley’s unbeaten 76 as Cumberland declared on 211-4 in the 41st over, 53 runs ahead of Hertfordshire.

Cumberland had to work fast to win the game but Steve Snell had other ideas as he went on to score 74 from 61 balls in a second wicket partnership of 92 with Nesan Jeyaratnam (38), which took the match away from Cumberland.

Hertfordshire finished on 138-5 after 33 overs to claim five points, while Cumberland picked up nine points from the match.

The weather cost Cumberland the opportunity to finish second in the table as they ended joint-third with Norfolk, just one point behind Cambridgeshire.

MEANWHILE Cumberland take on Wiltshire in the final of the MCCA Trophy at Wormsley Cricket Ground on Wednesday.

Cumberland beat Dorset by four wickets on July 1 in Bournemouth to book their place in the final.