BARNT Green were forced to batten down the hatches when they faced Birmingham League defending champions Berkswell this week.

A depleted Green bowling attack couldn't prevent Berkswell from rattling up the runs as they reached a huge total of of 343 for four declared.

Despite being given 58 overs back in reply, the Green were forced to drop anchor as they played out for the draw by scoring 156 for five at close.

Green skipper Andy Sutton said: "It was the best pitch we have played on all season and Berkswell batted beautifully on it.

"They could have declared much earlier than they did and a total of 343 was always going to be difficult to chase down.

"In the end, we just had to get out of the game what we could, but equally it was just as important not to throw the game away.

"In the end, despite the comments, Australian James Psarakis and myself just had to block the game out, especially as we didn't have too much batting to follow.

"Berkswell have a very strong side and despite missing several key players, still had a powerful top five.

"We were missing a few players ourselves, but in truth Berkswell have much stronger strength in depth than we do."

Barnt Green make the short journey to Worcestershire rivals Kidderminster this Saturday who are currently in the thick of a relegation battle.

Sutton must again wait to see whether he will have use of Warwickshire trio Matt Lamb, Ed Pollock and Josh Poysden, together with Somerset's Tom Banton.