Oxford University's women denied the MCC women their first victory with a battling performance in the Parks yest- erday.

Having drawn their opening match against an under 21 Surrey representative side last week, MCC looked favourites to record a victory when they declared on 159-4, and had Oxford on the back foot at 55-5.

But the Dark Blues' tail held out to record a valiant draw.

Lucy Mullins was the main thorn in Oxford's side, hammering an impressive unbeaten half-century, and was well-supported by Wantage's former England player, Debbie Stock who scored 43.

Jenny Williams was the pick of the Oxford bowlers on a slow, damp wicket, and was well-supported by Sarah Thorne and skipper Sally Auld, whose off-spin troubled the batswomen.

Oxford's innings got off to a slow start, with Chloe Dalton the first to fall for just six, and three more quick wickets left them reeling on 43-4.

But at the other end the classy Ally Rendu was staying firm, defiantly fending out the pace of Shanim Umarji and spin of Stock.

Looking impressive on her front foot with some solid pushes through the off-side, Rendu helped to steadily push the score along, before being run out from a 30-yard direct hit by Charlotte Williams.

Katie Harris and Caroline McKenna launched some big-hitting to put Oxford in with a chance of victory, but when they were out, Harris for 13 and McKenna for 19, the chance of victory had gone.

Helen Thomas showed gritty defence, but when she was run out after a mix-up with Rosy Hughes, it was left to No 11 Sarah Thorne to save the day, doggedly blocking out the final over from Stock to record an unlikely draw.

Scores: MCC Women 159-4 dec (L Mullins 53 no, D Stock 43), Oxford University Women 133-9. MAIDEN OVER: Oxford University's Jenny Wiliams delivers as MCC's Lucy Mullins looks on Picture: Jon Lewis

Story date: Wednesday 19 May

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