KIDDERMINSTER felt the full force of reigning Birmingham League champions Berkswell this week but still managed to grind out a draw.

In what proved a rain reduced 21 overs affair, Kidderminster were left to chase a daunting target of 230 for five after Berkswell's batting line-up cut loose.

Kidderminster were forced to dig in when they replied to close on 64 for five.

Skipper Neil Pinner said: "We still managed to get more points than if we hadn't played at all, although we did have to spend five hours watching the rain come down.

"We reckoned afterwards that the current Berkswell side is so strong, that they would win the County Championship Second XI title, such is their strength in depth."

Current Leicestershire all-rounder Ateeq Javid set the tone when he thumped 97 off 68 balls.

Warwickshire prospect Dan Mousley also got in on the act by adding another 56.

And there was still time for Chris Whittock to wallop another 39 not out as Kidderminster's bowling attack took a real pounding.

Pinner added: "We lost a couple of early wickets in reply and from that point it was a case of making sure we didn't lose the game."

Former Derbyshire seamer Tom Milnes took two for 17 while ex-Glamorgan spinner Nick James snapped up two for 10.

Berkswell were also able to welcome back Warwickshire quick Ryan Sidebottom following injury and he claimed one for 21 which contained the prize wicket of Kiddy opener Angus Robson.

A philosophic Pinner observed: "We're mid-table at the moment which is a fair reflection of where we are and we need to make sure that we beat the teams around us.

"It's a big step-up from Division One and the difference we've noticed is the strength in depth.

"But if we play to our potential, then we should be alright."

Kidderminster entertain Dorridge at Chester Road this Saturday and Pinner was hoping to have principal spinner Charlie Stainforth back available while Andy Kimberlin will face a late fitness test.