Sale had to be content with two draws in Saturday’s fixtures in the Cheshire County Cricket league as neither side were able to force a win as the season reached its halfway point.

The firsts travelled to Bramhall and elected to field first and the hosts closed on 192-7 thanks largely to a 102-run third wicket partnership between Greg Dixon (82) and Nick Cantello (56).

Dan Newton (4-48) was the pick of the Sale bowlers.

Sale were up with the required rate for much of the innings with Tyrone Lawrence looking well set, however when he was sixth man out for 60, Sale were still 72 runs short of their target, eventually electing to bat out for the draw at 162-8.

The seconds dominated their match with second-placed Romiley but were unable to force the win.

Batting first, Mike Bishop top scored with an unbeaten 85 as Sale were bowled out for 219 – Joe Molloy and Rob Grant, both with 30, were the main supporting acts.

In reply, Romiley batted out at 176-8 for the draw.

Sale thirds restricted Toft to 163-9 but despite the efforts of Asad Khan (52), Ian Habershon (35) and Lionel Thompson (28) they fell just six runs short of victory.

Sale fourths lost at Bowdon while, earlier in the week Sale Silverbacks won their second game in as many weeks against high-flying Grappenhall.

Ashton on Mersey fell to a second consecutive heavy defeat as their batting failed to spark against Stockport Georgians at The Beets.

Opting to bat first, Ashton were bowled out for just 52 as speedster George Hardman (5-13) ripped through the top order while spinner James Locke (4-4) cleaned up the tail.

Stockport had a few wobbles in their run chase, losing three wickets and giving other chances, but the formalities were concluded in just 12 overs.

Ashton’s seconds also lost, despite a fighting performance at Bollington. Ashton 143 all out (Jack Hanson 4-12) Bollington 146-7 (Callum Goodhind 43, Noman Ghous 4-34).

But Ashton’s thirds secured a fine win at Stockport Trinity. Stockport Trinity 142 all out (Patrick Clear 4-15), Ashton 143-5.