Oxfordshire Under 14s had to settle for third place at the annual Taunton Festival, although the bad weather had the final say.

In their opening match, Oxon took on competition favourites Yorkshire.

Josh Megson took two early wickets to reduce Yorkshire to 15-2, but 44 from Kris Ward and a quickfire 39 from Richard Sharracks saw them to 183-8.

Megson finished with 2-7 and Nick Barker 2-9.

Oxon found the going tough in their reply, with only Henry Sensecall (24) getting going.

However, Oxon avoided defeat as final pair Chris Goodman and Connor Williams blocked out the last seven overs as they closed on 89-9.

Oxon’s second match against Worcestershire was washed out without a ball being bowled.

Against Dorset, Oxon again held out for a draw.

Batting first, Dorset rattled up an impressive 212 all out, despite 3-40 from Curtly Slatter and 2-23 from Williams.

In their reply, Oxfordshire looked well-placed at 80-2, but a needless run-out sparked a collapse as five wickets fell for ten runs in ten overs.

Once again, the tail showed determination and Oxon comfortably held out for the draw.

Victory was secured in their fourth match as they thumped Devon by 154 runs.

Oxfordshire batted first and posted 199-8.

Adam Muttitt led the way with 52, and he shared a 60-run stand with Luke Finch for the second wicket.

Slatter also shone, smashing a quickfire 44.

Oxon’s seamers then blew Devon away for just 45, led by Megson, whose spell of 4-8 led to him receiving the bowling performance of the week award.

The rain returned to ruin the last game of the festival.

Oxon were handily placed at 95-4 against Kent, only for the heavens to open and wash out the game, meaning a third-place finish and an unbeaten festival.