Ton for William as Read win

The Whalley Road batsman put on 86 for the opening wicket against Earby alongside Kyle O’Connor, before the former captain exited with a half-century.

Wrathall went on to partner professional Matthew Walker (24), Bailey Richards (8) and Joshua Lavin (21 not out), finishing 104 not out.

His knock, which included three fours and nine sixes having faced 135 deliveries, contributed to just under half of the home side’s 220-3 total.

Read took control in the reversal when Ben Tarran’s departure with just four wickets on the board set the tone for the innings.

Jamie Woodall then got in to the flow of things for the hosts, taking the next four batsmen to culminate the afternoon on 4-30 from eight overs.

Oliver Newby, who had made the initial breakthrough, and Richards also took a couple of wickets apiece as Earby fell 76 runs short and Read picked up three vital points in Group Two.

Elsewhere, Padiham’s Group Three tie with Oswaldtwistle Immanuel at New Lane was abandoned.

Both teams will feature in the Ramsbottom Cup again on Saturday, with Read travelling to Back Lane to take on Baxenden while Padiham host holders Whalley at the Arbories.

They’ll then return to Ribblesdale League action on Sunday with Read facing Salesbury at Ribchester Road while Padiham will be entertained by Earby at the Applegarth.