ROBERT Croft, who struck a rapid 77 from only 64 balls, laid the foundation of a substantial total for Glamorgan before rain, which began with 22 balls of the innings remaining, caused the game to be abandoned with both teams allocated a point.

Croft relished his role as a pinch-hitter and with solid support from Steve James, Glamorgan were cruising at 116 for one in the 20th over when Croft was stumped off Paul Grayson.

Nasser Hussain won the toss but apart from Grayson there was little to trouble the Glamorgan batsmen, who rattled along at almost six an over.

After Adrian Dale was smartly run out by Hussain, Matthew Maynard (55) kept the momentum going with a series of attacking strokes. James (71), was the perfect foil and when he was yorked by Mark Ilott in the 45th over Glamorgan had their sights on a total approaching 300.

Earlier the third umpire was called to adjudicate when the umpires were unsure whether Tony Cottey had struck the ball or the ground as it carried to the wicketkeeper.

This is the first season that the third umpire has been involved in these decisions, and unfortunately for the batsman the cameras ruled in the bowler's favour.