BROMSGROVE had to settle for a losing draw as they fell short in a thrilling run chase against local rivals Himley in Birmingham League Division One.

The Boars won the toss and opted to bat first but it was the visitors who started the strong as they took advantage of good batting conditions to make 306-3 in 55 overs.

Greg Wright (134) and Wasim Jaffer (101) were in good form with the bat, while Alexei Kervezee, Tom Russell and Mark Evenson taking one wicket each.

Bromsgrove looked on good course to chase down their big target for victory only for Arfan Khan to take a devastating hat-trick in an over.

Jayden Levitt (85) and Ryan Pedley (74) had lead the way and Bromsgrove were on 265-5 with Worcestershire batsman Kervezee in good nick as he smashed 54 off 33 balls.

But the game swung back in Himley's favour when Khan dismissed Kervezee, James Ganderton and Evenson as Bromsgrove ended on 267-8.

Evenson said: "It was a very good game of cricket and I thought we were in with a shout of winning the game.

"We needed two boundaries and over but we had Alexei at the crease and playing well.

"Himley played well also but I will take the positives out of the game."

Bromsgrove, who are now fourth from bottom, go to Barnards Green on Saturday (noon start).