Bears fell to an agonising six-wicket defeat at home to Derbyshire Falcons following a devastating late barrage by visiting captain Leus Du Plooy.
Mark Robinson’s men piled up 203 for seven – but Du Plooy smashed an unbeaten 66 from 25 balls to see his side to 207 for four with three balls to spare.
Sam Hain’s unbeaten 79 not out (36 balls) in the Bears innings contained some breathtaking hitting but even he was trumped by Du Plooy’s display.
After openers Luis Reece (57, 38 balls) and Haider Ali (48, 34) added 96 in ten overs to set the perfect foundation for the big chase, Du Plooy built victory on it as he smashed five sixes and four fours.
