DARWEN’S batting charge towards a much deserved Northern League win at Blackpool was halted by the rain on Saturday as they were left kicking their heels when well on course for success.

John Cordingley’s men were well set for just their second win on a draw laden campaign as they were 137-2, needing 31 from five overs in order to claim the points.

Despite the loss of Jordan Clarke for six and professional Mohammad Zaman Khan for a five-ball duck, the locals were in the box seat thanks to Alex Davies and Chris Clarke.

Lancashire seconds’ wicketkeeper/batsman Davies again starred with the bat and the 16-year-old was 82 not out from 111 balls when the rain came down to bring a halt to proceedings, while Clarke was 46 not out as Darwen were well set.

The game had been reduced to a 40-over clash and Darwen performed well in the field as Blackpool took first knock.

Alex Smith made 73 for the home side and Steven Twist chipped in with 34 but ex-East Lancashire professional Con de Lange made just five on his Blackpool debut before becoming one of two Zaman Khan victims.

There were also two wickets each for Kamran Anwar and Chris Wade as Darwen put themsel-ves in the box seat before the rain came and left them being forced to settle for three points.