KNUTSFORD'S batsmen could not build on a foundation laid by their bowlers when they crashed to a 63-run defeat away to Trafford MV on Saturday.

Set a target of 164 to win, they were knocked over for 100 with only Adnan Ghazanfar (40) and Abdul Qadoos (22) making a significant contribution before a defiant Zahid Saleem (14) delayed the inevitable.

Saqib Qadeer (3-9) and Paul Roberts (3-5) did the damage for the home team.

Knutsford had reason to feel optimistic they could win the Cheshire League Division Four encounter after captain Adeel Bhatti (4-43) and Saleem (3-57) had both continued their fine run of form to restrict Trafford to 163-9.

There was reason to cheer at Mereheath Lane, where Knutsford's seconds eased to an eight-wicket win against Europa Exiles in Division C North.

Ashish Abraham (5-26) was their star turn as the visitors collapsed to 78 all out.

Raghu Bhaskar (2-15) and Zain Ali (2-9) provided support.

The home team made it to their target in 18 overs after Asumon Ahmed (25) and skipper Gabor Simon (26no) put on 38 runs for the second wicket.