Walkden'S title hopes were dented by an impressive return to form by Egerton.

The north Bolton side have been struggling this season but thanks to 102 from Mike O'Rourke they dominated the first innings to finish on 211-4.

In reply Walkden had made 142-5 when rain washed out play leaving their influential pro Doug Watson unbeaten on 72 and robbing the game of a possible thrilling finish.

Kearsley were left frustrated when the rain robbed them of four overs and the chance to polish off bottom club Farnworth.

The visitors amassed 245-5 with solid knocks from Tom Whittle 65 not out, Stephen Davies 48 and Darron Foy 44. Akber hit a whirlwind 44 off 16 balls.

In reply Farnworth ended 143-9 with Shafiq Ahmed 45 and Matthew McGuinness unbeaten on 30 when the rain ended the game. Akber grabbed 5-60.