MARCH Cricket Club’s first game of the season was brought to a premature end by the rain.

Cambs Times: 1st Xl March cricket v Downham Town, Action at Saturdays match. Picture: Pat Ringham.1st Xl March cricket v Downham Town, Action at Saturdays match. Picture: Pat Ringham. (Image: Archant)

They welcomed Downham Town CC, who beat neighbours Wisbech CC in the previous game, to The Avenue for an annual friendly fixture.

The visitors batted first and made an imposing 231-2 from 45 overs.

Two of their top four retired once they had reached their half-centuries.

Second team regulars Andy Wright and Richard Green both produced economic nine over stints, with seamer Wright taking 1-30 and off-spinner Green 0-30.

The only other wicket to fall was again from a second string player - leg-spinner Nathan Oliver, who returned figures of 1-25.

March’s reply started solidly, with Tommy Howgego (38no) and Tyler Phillips (17no) taking the score to 60 without loss after 16 overs.

But the rain came and prevented what would have been an enthralling run chase.

March kick off their Tucker League campaign on Saturday at home to Camden CC, with a 1pm start.