NANTWICH lost a thrilling Joseph Holt Brewery T20 final against Bramhall in Knutsford on Sunday.

The Dabbers, chasing 141 to win in front of an enthralled 500-strong crowd, were restricted to 135-5 by their Cheshire County League Premier Division rivals.

In the last four, they had beaten an Alderley Edge team minus former England favourite Andrew Flintoff – but including Lancashire’s Jordan Clark – by three wickets.

Nantwich had secured a spot at finals day following a crushing 10-wicket win against lower-ranked Weaverham last Wednesday, when returning Jimmy Warrington claimed 3-22 as they skittled the Northwich outfit for just 54.

On Saturday, they had the better of a home game against Toft.

Fast-scoring Ollie Griffiths (48 off 14 balls) hit seven sixes to help increase their tally to 238-7 in a contest reduced by rain to 78 overs.

Their guests closed on 188-6 in reply.

Nantwich head to strugglers Urmston this weekend, from 12.30pm.