WESSEX Warriors beat Dorset champions Poole Town CC by five wickets to reach the last 16 of the ECB Vitality T20 Cup.

Under-13 cricketers from Marlborough, Avebury and Wilcot helped the Wiltshire side seal victory with 2.3 overs to spare in a thrilling encounter.

The Warriors will take on the champions of Hampshire, Somerset, and Gloucestershire for the opportunity to play in the National finals.

Poole won the toss and elected to bat, but were restricted to 52-4 after 12 overs by their visitors.

Garbett bowled accurately while Bayly took a couple of wickets. Poole’s innings gained much-needed impetus through Thorne who retired on 30 not out as they posted a respectable 124-6 after 20 overs.

Wessex openers Miller and Collister made a swift start in reply with 50 runs scored within six overs.

Collister retired on 30 not out and despite a couple of quick wickets, Brown took up the mantle with a quick fire 25.

It was left to Clark to hit the winning boundary as a self-assured display saw the Warriors record their highest run chase in the competition.