COOKLEY produced one of their best results in 25 years as they stunned Birmingham League side Astwood Bank to make progress in the Davidstow National Village Knock-out Cup.

Astwood, who play in the Birmingham Division Three after winning the Worcestershire League last season, were regarded as one of the favourites to make it all the way to Lords.

They scored 250-6 in their 40 overs, with Ryan Parker bowling a superb opening spell of 2-20.

In reply, the large crowd was treated to some excellent batting from Cookley’s Al Roden (61) and a man-of-the-match performance with the bat from skipper Paul Thomas (90 not out).

Mark Bennett smashed a quick-fire 38 not out for a seven-wicket victory (254-3).

They now play Rushwick on Sunday in the cup.

In Division Two, Cookley defeated Rushwick to move to the top. Thomas (91no) and Roden (68) got the runs as Cookley made 275 all out, before Rushwick were bowled for 189.