Braintree's second string travelled to West Bergholt knowing that rain was coming, it was just a case of when and as a result the game was reduced from the outset to 35 overs.
Skipper Andy Sherry won the toss and elected to field with the hope of quick wickets and an opportunity of chasing a low total and himself and Danny King delivered in the early stages. As Bergholt looked to be aggressive on a damp, green surface it was Sherry who made the breakthrough hanging onto a caught and bowled Defedar was sent back for 10. After having a couple of confident LBW shouts turned down King then trapped Edward Hance in front for 4 before knocking back the leg stump of Oostuizen for for a single as the rain began to fall persistently over the ground. Bergholt were deeper in trouble as King again induced the umpire to raised his finger as he Jayakumar played all around a straight one and the home side were struggling at 53-4. That became 65-5 as, with the last ball of his spell, King removed Ryan Deal for 2 as he chipped one up in the air for Charlie Garner to take a comfortable catch at mid off.
Braintree were denied a 3rd bowling point by a moment of absolute housery as Dave Hale had Sreenath Kamatham clearly caught behind by Matt Kent but, having started to make his way back to the pavilion, changed his mind when he saw the umpire had not raised his finger and returned to the crease.
Shortly after the rain became too heavy and, with the wicket deteriorating by the over, the skippers made the decision to call time.
Disappointing for the Dolphins who went into the game confident of kick starting their season but Mother Nature had other ideas on this occasion.
Tougher opposition in store next week as the 2's welcome Melton St Audry's to St. Peters Close