The Hawks had to work hard for a draw against the Yorkshire Gents at Escrick Park, York yesterday.

The hosts opted to bat first on a near-perfect pitch and made steady progress against Dean Harvey and Guy Scott, who both bowled well with the new ball, and at lunch the Gents had reached 76-1.

They later declared on 177-3, with G Barker top-scoring with 69. The Hawks also made a steady start, with veterans Peter Riley (27) and Tim Feather (28) putting on 46 for the first wicket.

The good work was continued by Harvey and Rob Booth but thereafter the visitors fell away somewhat, finishing on 159-9.

Booth made 23 for the Hawks and Harvey a fine 56 as Pete Drummond struck with 5-31.

On Sunday, the Hawks visit Swinton Park Cricket Club, near Masham (1.30pm).