THE Central Lancashire League finished up in a fairly strong position after the first innings of their annual clash with the Lancashire League at Church last night.

Thanks largely to the efforts of Littleborough pair Phil Deakin (91 not out) and Chris Dearden (39), the CLL reached a very respectable 197-4from their allotted 40 overs.

The innings was built on firm foundations, with Deakin and Werneth opener Paul Entwistle (35) putting on more than 80 for the first wicket.

Although the scoring rate wasn't particularly fast, it proved a perfect platform for the CLL to accelerate and Deakin carried his bat, hitting a six and a dozen fours.

East Lancs bowler Nas Iqbal was the most economical of the Lancashire League attack.

But it was Colne skipper Gary Hunt who finally broke the opening partnership, thanks to a superb catch taken by East Lancs skipper Mark Lomas. Generally, however, there wasn't much joy for the Lancashire League bowlers, even though Rishton's John Seedle picked up two wickets, including that of the dangerous Dearden.

The game is due to continue at Church tonight (6pm) when, weather permitting, the Lancashire League will have their 40 overs.

The draw for the semi-finals of the inter-league challenge trophy being played between clubs from the two leagues was brought forward to last night and gave Haslingden home advantage against Werneth.

Nelson must travel to Littleborough in the other tie, with the semi-finals to be staged on Saturday, July 26.

Werneth were a little fortunate to defeat Lancashire League champions Rishton in an earlier round and then got past Todmorden only in a "bowl-out" after looking as though they would be chasing a big score.

So Haslingden will fancy their chances of making it to the inaugural final of this competition.

Nelson, however, could face a tough test against an in-form Littleborough side, who defeated another CLL club Walsden in the quarter finals.

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