A SEASON of transition reached its nadir for Cumberland CC when failing to progress in the Cheltenham and Gloucester Trophy, the prestige competition which offers the chance of a lucrative tie against First-Class county opposition.

Before this match, Cumberland were already looking to rebuild with the news that several senior members of the squad are to retire.

Now, defeat by Warwickshire Cricket Board in the first preliminary round tie means it will be all the harder to maintain the interest and support behind the Minor Counties club.

Cumberland recognised the importance of qualifying by putting out a strong side with all three professionals playing, but went down by 17 runs despite having home advantage at St Georges Road, Millom last week.

Century-maker James Troughton, who is grandson of TV's Doctor Who actor Patrick Troughton, hammered 115 out of a Warwickshire haul of 212-7 and took 4-23 to help bring about the home side's demise.

Netherfield paceman David Wheatman took took 3-23 and David Pennett 3-35.

Cumberland could not match their opponents' effort with the bat.

Only Ashley Metcalfe and Steve O'Shaughnessy made an impact with half-century contributions as Cumberland fell short of victory on 195 with six balls remaining.

Cumberland chairman Alan Wilson said: "It was very disappointing to lose from a financial point of view because there is an allocation of £5,000 per club for those who get into the first round proper.

"That would have meant still having to beating Cambridgeshire, a useful team, in the second of the two preliminary rounds, but it's now clear that we will have to regroup and rebuild and bring younger players, especially batsmen, into the side."

Cumberland's success to become Eastern Division champions has given them a bye in the competition at this level in previous seasons, and the 2002 qualifiers were attached to the end of this season to enable clubs to promote and find sponsorship during the winter months.