STRATFORD’S Birmingham League Division Three campaign ended on a losing note as they were beaten by champions C&R Hawks.
Hawks travelled to Stratford needing two more points to secure the title following the previous weekend’s unexpected defeat to Astwood Bank, so another poor performance could have handed the trophy to Stratford.
However, Hawks made no mistake with a three-wicket win and Stratford had to be content with runners-up spot and promotion.
In a match reduced to 35 overs per side Stratford made 151-8, aided by 30 extras, 25 from Chris Calcott and lower order contributions from Sam Douthwaite (23no) and Tom Grundy (22).
Omar Ali took 4-25 for a Hawks side in which every one of their players bowled an over.
With the title secured thanks to the bowling points they earned Hawks, who were wobbling somewhat at 116-6, won with more than five overs remaining as they reached 157-7.
Iftikhar Khan top scored with 35, while Douthwaite took 3-26 to cap an impressive individual display.
