The inconsistencies of the British summer weather helped Cambridge Granta to take pole position in the race for the EAPL title with three matches to go.

While all the other contenders were hit by the rain, the defending champions managed a full day's play at Clare College and made it count by beating Burwell by five wickets.

The 30 points took Granta past morning leaders Swardeston, whose match at strugglers Clacton was one of three no results – the others being Vauxhall Mallards home match against Bury St Edmunds and Great Witchingham's trip to Halstead.

Horsford completed their own innings against Sudbury at Manor Park, making 192-9 with opener Nathan Perry Warnes making 49. But the rain set in after only four balls of Sudbury's reply.

Bottom of the table Norwich had the frustration of having what would have been only their second victory of the season snatched from their very grasp when the thunderstorms rolled into Ingham.

They dismissed Saffron Walden for just 50, in 25.2 overs, and had charged to 33 without loss in 5.4 overs in response when they were driven off by the elements.

Captain Paul Wiseman was the Norwich bowling hero, taking seven for 31 in 12.2 overs.

His opposite number, Jason Gallian (18), was the only Saffron Walden player to reach double figures.

For the three Norfolk title-chasers there is still all to play for despite the weather setback.

Swardeston are at home to Halstead this weekend, visit Great Witchingham on September 10 and finish at home to Norwich on September 17.

Mallards face Sudbury (away), Saffron Walden (home) and Horsford (away). Witchingham go to Halstead before following their crunch battle with Swardeston with a final day trip to Burwell.