LESS than two hours of play were possible on the final day as Oxfordshire’s Western Division match with Dorset fizzled out in an unsatisfactory draw.

The game, which had the entire first day’s play washed out, was halted at 12.20pm.

The teams watched the drizzle in vain, but no further action was possible.

And following a pitch inspectioni it was officially called off at 4.15pm.

It means both Oxfordshire’s games this summer have been prematurely ended by bad weather.

But unlike their opener against Berkshire, when the conditions saved Richard Kaufman’s side from a probable defeat, the game at Great & Little Tew was more finely balanced – although Dorset held the upper hand.

Dorset resumed on 44-3 in their second innings, a lead of 106.

A total of 23 wickets fell on the previous day, but scalps proved tougher to come by for the Oxon attack early on.

The visitors progressed to 87-4, when Kaufman trapped Darren Cowley lbw for 22.

Francois Vainker picked up his second wicket of the innings – and fourth of the match – as he had Masoor Khan caught behind by Jamie Perkin for 37.

Kaufman struck again as Dorset were reduced to 113-6, with skipper Tom Hicks out.

Oxon’s progress was hindered by Chris Park’s patient batting.

The rain had already started when the Dorset wicket-keeper was bowled for 19 by Ashley Blanchard.

It was the final ball before the players were forced off the pitch.

Dorset were left on 150-7, a lead of 212, but with more than two sessions still to play a victory for either side would have been possible if conditions had been more favourable.

Oxfordshire will be hoping for better weather when they host Wales at Challow & Childrey CC from Sunday, July 8.