Chesham put on a solid team display in their rain-affected Thames Valley League Division One clash to record a two-wicket win over Cove.

Stoke Green’s 12-run defeat to Kew means Chesham are just five points adrift of the league leaders with two games to play.

Chesham looked to be facing a tough task to secure the potentially vital win after Cove’s batsmen put on a united front against their bowling attack.

Nicholas Farr (42) and Tonotenda Mawoyo (32) set up base camp for their total of 221-8 as the openers produced a composed display.

Scores of 44 and 38 from Jordan Finney and James Marsh carried on the momentum created by the openers after cheap dismissals for Najeeb Bashir Malik (zero) and Nick Randall (nine).

A late slump ensured they couldn’t push on for a bigger total and a rain delay left Chesham chasing a recalculated 217 to win.

Jason Rance had done the majority of the work for the visitors on his way to 3-50, while Asad Rehman was also productive to finish with 2-44.

Mark Eteen (1-14) and Pip France (1-16) also contributed.

France would go on to play a pivotal role in Chesham’s successful run chase as the number eight’s battling 53 helped drag his side to victory.

Those who had gone before France lacked the same level of composure and Chesham looked destined for a tough day when Matt Rance fell for an early duck.

Andy Goddard (33) and Jason Rance (36) provided the mid-innings stability for Chesham before France set them on their way to victory.

It was left to Chris Hedges (15 not out) to score the final runs and secure 20 points which thrust Chesham firmly into the title conversation.

A match against fourth place Falkland awaits on Saturday and a win could see Chesham usurp Green as League leaders.

The title front-runners take on Cove before the pair face respective matches against Boyne Hill and Falkland on the final day.