Southampton did not bat (match abandoned) Any hopes Southampton Rangers had of winning the Western Counties Cup this year were ruined by rain during Saturday's second-round clash against champions Somerset Bridge at White Hill Field.

The home side had batted for 37 overs and scored 133 for the loss of six wickets when rain forced play to be abandoned, with the teams never able to return as the weather failed to make any significant improvement.

When rain first intervened the game was evenly poised with Bridge struggling for a respectable total that would enable their bowlers to rally and steer them to victory.

However, instead of another exciting climax similar to the first round when Bridge beat Willow Cuts with only one ball left and darkness blanketing the pitch, this contest ended in an uneventful draw.

Cup holders Bridge thus move on to the next round where Warwick await.

The game, which began 80 minutes late, lasted just 120 minutes yet still produced some excitement with guest player Jeff Richardson slamming 42 and Brian Gibbons 30 not out for Bridge, who were sent in to bat.

Others in the mix were Francis Richardson, who contributed 18 and opener O'Neil Virgil (11).

The Richardson duo steered Bridge out of early trouble, putting on 54 for the third wicket after two wickets had fallen for 21 runs.

Janeiro Tucker took two for 31, Carl Garzette two for 32 and Dwayne Steede two for 42 for Rangers.