OULTON Park batsman Danny Leech has been in the runs for Cheshire, but their hopes of victory have again been washed away by the weather.

Opener Leech struck 85 on the opening day of his side's Minor Counties clash with Cornwall at Truro Cricket Club.

He supported skipper Andy Hall (138) in a second-wicket stand of 193 as Cheshire posted 374-8 from their 90 overs.

In reply Cornwall slipped to 56-3 at the close of the first, leaving their guests in a commanding position.

Chesire's sound start was all the more impressive considering they were struggling to find enough players with some of the original squad members crying off at the last minute.

No fewer than three new faces have made their debut this week.

But Monday was a total wash out, making sure they did not have a chance to make an impression.

Captain Hall was understandably frustrated.

Speaking before the start of play yesterday, Tuesday, he said: "We fancied our chances of bowling out Cornwall cheaply, but now it's going to be very hard to do in one day - and that's if it doesn't rain again."

His side needed to take 17 wickets to stand any chance of winning.

But Hall knows that's easier said than done.

He added: "We are the only team who can win the game, but it's a big ask.

"At least we can be attacking and force the pace, as there's not much chance that Cornwall can do other than try to hold out for a draw."

Oulton Park captain Nathan Dumelow joined Leech in the starting line up, but batsman Ben Spendlove pulled out late on.

He was replaced by Oxton's Simon Stokes.

Keith Waterhouse and Daniel Berry are the other debutants.