TIM Hook hit his first ball into the sightscreen for six to clinch victory for Oxford Downs 2nd at Sandford St Martin.

The hosts almost defended their modest 109, as all bar Jim Howe (31) struggled against Nick Rivett (5-15) and Steve Roberts (4-48).

Downs made it three wins from three thanks to James Ellwood (49no) and Hook’s blow with three balls to spare.

Ox Downs 2nd 25pts, Sandford 8

Horspath 2nd were forced to cling on at 98-9 by title rivals Long Marston, whose players wore black armbands in honour of club member Roger Doodson, who died the previous weekend.

Marston’s 158-9 came from 40 overs, and although Stephen Green hit 46 for Horspath, Pete Toovey’s 4-44 left them blocking for a draw.

Long Marston 17, Horspath 2nd 4

Cublington went top after they breezed past Banbury 3rd, who were restricted to 135-7 from their 40 overs.

Daniel Catt then clattered 56 as the home side rushed to 136-5 in only 18.1 overs.

Cublington 25, Banbury 3rd 7

Shipton 2nd were reduced to 16-5 at Dinton 2nd when heavy rain arrived.

They fared little better when the weather relented, reaching 55 before being bowled out, Faisal Ali taking 6-28.

Dinton dashed to 57 without loss inside nine overs.

Dinton 2nd 25, Shipton 2nd 0

Only eight overs were possible at Bledlow Ridge, where Richard Simpson slammed 45 not out from only 29 balls to take Bicester & North Oxford to 60-1.

Bledlow Ridge 6, Bicester & NO 6