ROYAL Ascot dropped from top to fourth in Division 2b of the Thames Valley League after they were beaten by three wickets at Thatcham Town, writes Richard Ashton.

Nick Sweetman made 73 for the visitors, but he lacked support as good spells from Chris Bird (4-34) and Alex Wood (3-50) ensured Ascot were bowled out for 169 in 50.4 overs.

Ollie Dunnett (3-40) did his best to help the away side back into the contest, but 54 from Rhodri Lewis proved decisive as Thatcham (170-7) edged home with just two balls to spare.

Royal Ascot will look to return to winning ways when they host High Wycombe 2nds on Saturday.

In Division 4a, Royal Ascot 2nds defeated Bagshot 2nds by 78 runs.

Jason Carr (55) opener Deep Mohain (47) and George Payne (33) were all in the runs as the home side amassed 201-7 in their 52 overs, Jonny Atkinson the pick of the attack with 3-24.

Saeed Ahmed (3-37) gave Ascot a dream start by claiming three early wickets, and with Mike Wyatt (4-22) and Elliott Coggins (2-27) providing useful support, the visitors were knocked over for 123.

A batting collapse cost Royal Ascot 3rds dearly as they slumped to a 43-run reverse in a low-scoring Division 6b game at Farnham Common 2nds.

Ascot appeared on top after bowling their opponents out for 139, but then subsided to 96 all out themselves.

Captain Naeem Mohammed took 4-35 as Royal Ascot 4ths (181-7) beat Windsor 4ths (177) by three wickets in a thrilling Division 8a clash.