Durham’s 2nd XI bowed out of the T20 competition at the semi-final stage after suffering a rain-affected defeat to Essex at Arundel Castle.
Prospects for play looked bleak at the start of the day with heavy rain falling throughout the morning, but the rain relented enough to allow for two five-over-per-side semi-finals.
Essex decided to bowl first & restricted Durham to 53/5 off five, largely thanks to the efforts of Michael Jones.
The 20-year-old struck 35 off just 15 balls, including 2x4s & 2x6s, but lacked support around him.
Neil Killeen’s side needed a quick start with the ball but Paul Walter, who scored 37 off 12 balls, flew out of the blocks. With 25 taken off the first over, Essex cruised to victory inside 2.3 overs.
Lancashire ran out eventual winners, defending 66/9 with ease in a nine-over-per-side final.