A THRILLING finale handed victory to Cookley against local rivals Hagley in their Worcestershire County League clash.

Hagley chose to bat and had a great start but were pegged back by Jaimen Rudd’s superb 5-64 to post 245-9.

In reply Matty Goode held the innings together with a stylish 75 supported by Rudd 42 and Jamie Brighton's 40 but in a tense last over the Villagers won by a single run from the final ball thanks to veteran Adam Nicholls 21 not out.

Cookley are second in division one first XI, 25 points behind Redditch with two games to play.

Cookley skipper Paul Thomas believes it is Redditch’s title to lose but added whatever the outcome this will be his club's highest ever league finish in their 148 year history.

Elsewhere, Cookley seconds' promotion hopes were dented when they let Bromsgrove off the hook to post a formidable 299-8. In reply Cookley earned a credible losing draw with 239-8, Stuey Nichols scored 59 while Liam Platt was 50 not out.

In the league's division 6/7 cup semi-final, Cookley thirds won by nine wickets, James Brown contributed 74 not out in their total of 135-1 against Netherton thirds.