Castleford CC suffered their first defeat of the season in the Yorkshire Premier League North when they were unable to chase down a big score in their game at Driffield Town.

After pulling off a pair of thrilling wins in close contests the previous week there was no victory against the odds this time after Driffield took full advantage of conditions in batting first and posting a 260-9 total in their 50 overs.

Castleford also topped the 200-run mark, but fell 49 runs short in their quest to make it seven wins from seven in the league.

They still remain at the head of affairs, but have seen their advantage cut to eight points now over second-placed Sheriff Hutton Bridge with Woodhouse Grange and Clifton Alliance both a further six points back.

Hayden Walsh hit an unbeaten half century in vain for Castleford at Driffield Town. Picture: Castleford CC

placeholder image — Hayden Walsh hit an unbeaten half century in vain for Castleford at Driffield Town. Picture: Castleford CC

An 104-run sixth wicket stand between Jake Hatton (59) and George Drury (57) proved decisive after Castleford had been well in the game with their opponents on 143-5 and the dangerous Jack Redshaw back in the dressing room after his 71-ball knock of 72 had been ended when he was bowled by Eddie Morrison.

But although Morrison and Hayden Walsh both ended with 3-72 the Driffield score was always going to take some chasing.

Despite losing two early wickets Castleford gave it a go with Brayden Clark (36) and Owen Smith (39) helping them reach 104-2.

West Indies international Walsh then took up the cause as he hit an unbeaten 58, but he ran out of support and despite a spirited last wicket stand of 49 with Morrison (19) Cas were all out for 211.

Castleford’s second team did bring some cheer as they raced to an eight-wicket success against Selby seconds in the YPLN Division Two Ebor.

Ethan Dickinson (30) led them home in just 16.1 overs after they had dismissed their opponents for 92 with Dylan Tudge (6-16) doing most of the damage.