Reigning Bolton League champions Little Lever were dumped out of the Lancashire Knockout at the quarter-final stage yesterday after a shock three-wicket defeat to Walsden.

The Central Lancashire Premier Division side had Sri Lankan pro Umesh Karunaratne to thank after he took 4-24 as the hosts quickly collapsed to 86 all out, with only captain Josh Gent (20) scoring anything of note.

Despite Lever’s professional bowler Kamran Younis taking 3-8, Walsden replied with 88-7 to claim the victory. Joe Gayle top-scored with 27 not out and Stevie Barker also hit 20no.

Walsden will play either Greenmount or Nordon in the semi-final on Sunday, 1.30pm start.

Result: Little Lever 86 Walsden 88-7. Walsden won by 3wkts.