ADRIAN Cockett struck 61 as Crewe's first XI clinched a 41-run win over Eccleshall 2nds.

George Harding (26) and Tae Rutter (24) also contributed to Crewe's total of 173 all out at the Vagrants as the hosts decision to bat eventually went in their favour.

Eccleshall were looking good at one stage with Jonathan Bramall anchoring the innings, but they lost their last seven wickets for only 31 runs as Harding followed up his batting with a three-wicket haul.

Cockett also took two wickets as did Shaukat Bashir and Martin Webb as the visitors were skittled for 132 in the 35th over.

Crewe stand seventh in North Staffs South Cheshire Division Three.

Meanwhile, Crewe's second XI went down to a heavy 116-run defeat against leaders Audlem in NSSC Division Eight.

The home side thrashed 216-5 from their 40 overs helped by Christopher Shenton's 72 and an unbeaten knock of 47 from Atiq Hashmi.

Crewe struggled in reply and slumped to 100 all out in the 35th over. Steven Bickerton top scored with 25.

Download our Nub News App!

- It’s FREE and available now
- Breaking news notifications
- Your Town in Your Pocket

Crewe remain third in the table, but their hopes of catching Audlem, who are 33 points better off, have faded.