Neil Baker has tipped Reigate Priory to win the Premier Division of the Surrey Championship – but only just.

The Spencer CC skipper saw his side push the leaders all the way on Saturday at the SCG before the rain came in and Reigate claimed a winning draw.

Baker praised his batting line up for reaching 238, featuring a half-century from opener Hugo Darby (54).

However, his bowling attack faced a formidable batting order including Surrey CCC T20 specialist Jason Roy and Sussex all rounder Craig Cachopa, and Reigate were comfortable on 217-6 when the rain came.

Baker said: “Having played both Wimbledon and Reigate, I’d tip Reigate to edge it.

“Wimbledon have handy bowlers, especially if they get Tim Linley back, but Reigate’s batting is so strong.

“When you get Roy out, you’ve got a guy who was on TV the night before coming in, it’s quite daunting.

“Against us they had five players at county level, two regulars in the Unicorns and one who’s played Australian state cricket.”

He added: “But it is great for the Surrey Championship, and I’d hope my players are inspired about facing such opposition.

“We gave Reigate a real test, maybe we needed 30 or so more runs, but to push a side containing the likes of Roy and Luke [Beavens] is a great lift to the team.”

Spencer host Leatherhead this weekend.