Stratford gain further ground on leaders Stourbridge after winning draw

STRATFORD closed the gap on Birmingham and District League Division Three leaders Stourbridge to six points following Saturday’s winning draw against Rugby.

Hugh Cochrane (87) and former Warwickshire skipper Michael Powell (78 not out) helped Rugby to 269 for eight declared, in 53 overs, with Stratford’s Archie Walker taking six for 87.

Stratford’s response was, eventually, reduced to 21 overs, from which they clattered 164 for five to take the winning draw, thanks to 45 from Dexter Purser and an undefeated 42 from Will Noble.

Stourbridge’s match at Redditch was abandoned in the 31st over with the visitors on 140 for three.

Full report and reaction in this week’s Herald.