Aston Rowant had the worse end of a draw in their rain-shortened Home Counties Premier League Division 2 West match at home to Reading on Saturday – a result that leaves both sides in danger of the drop.

Batting first, Reading reached 172-6 from their reduced number of 39 overs.

David Barr and Shelvin Gumbs added 71 for the third wicket.

Barr was run out for 43 after some smart work from Chris Watling, while Gumbs (45) became one of Wes Morrick’s four victims in a marathon spell from the Rowant skipper.

With only 34 overs to get the runs, Rowant made a disatrous start to their reply, slipping to 12-3 and rhen 45-5 against talented Bberkshire spinner Luke Beaven.

Watling and Andrew Tolson, who finished with 40 not out, pulled the innings round and helped the hosts secure a draw at 112-7.