AN interesting afternoon's play saw Chorley fight back from a difficult position in the field to gain a winning draw.

Batting first, Chorley were once again given a terrific start by John Tolley who shared stands of 57 with Nigel Eastham and 68 with captain Jack Catterall.

After a mini-collaps, Michael Critchley (54 n.o.) and professional Friedel de Wet put on 70 to carry Chorley to their big toal of 242 for six.

The Barrow opener was soon forced to retire hurt after De Wet hit him on the helmet with a ferocious delivery.

Barrow then seemed on course for a famous victory when professional Wanasinghe was Darren Clark put on a massive stand of 132, but Billy Smith bowled the Sri Lankan for 65 and followed that by also bowling Clark for 75.

The Barrow innings then imploded and De Wet and Smith grabbed three wickets each to leave the visitors hanging on at 185 for eight.

At Birch Hall, a knock of 108 from Atif Ashraf wasn't enough for Darwen as they could only pick up a losing draw against Lancaster.

Kamran Anwar claimed four wickets as the visitors posted a total of 209.

But the home side could only manage 195 in reply, despite Ashraf's best efforts.

Meanwhile, Darwen start their defence of the Northern League 20 Twenty Cup today away to current league leaders Leyland.