Rainford had mixed Bank Holiday fortunes losing their opening League encounter at Newton Le Willows before bouncing back on Monday with a resounding win at Wigan to finish top of their knockout cup group.

The game at Newton was a low scoring affair with Ian Walkden’s match winning innings of 70 not out proving the difference between the sides.

Sam Stainier did the damage for Newton with 5 for 33 as Rainford were bowled out for 115 with Ravi Mistry (29) and Stuart Benzies (21) the main contributors. In reply Newton were in trouble at 25 for 3 and although losing two more wickets, the experienced Walkden saw them safely home.

On Monday an impressive bowling display from Ravi Mistry (3 for 19) and skipper Andy Davies (4 for 25) dismissed Wigan for 124.

Rainford comfortably reached the total for the loss of four wickets with Graeme Green notching his second half century of the season and Joe Noctor making 37. This now sees Rainford safely into the last 16 of the Ray Digman Knockout Cup.

The 2nd X1 recorded a comprehensive win against Hightown with Chris Spencer (5 for 47) and Andrew Harrison (5 for 49) combining to spin out the coastal outfit for 144. Phil Curran (78 not out) and Jack Hemingway (34) then put on a century opening partnership as Rainford breezed home by nine wickets.

On Sunday the 3rd X1 lost by seven wickets to St Helens Town after being bowled out for 70.