A late show of defiance could not prevent Cambridgeshire from losing to Lincolnshire by 44 runs in a three day Minor Counties clash at Wisbech’s Harecroft Road.

There was strong home representation in the Cambridgeshire side, with Wisbech captain Alan Burton, Gary Freear, Josh Bowers and James Williams turning out for the county.

Lincolnshire won the toss and batted first but Cambridgeshire restricted them to 243 all out, with Williams picking up 1-26.

In reply, Burton (35), Freear (32) and Williams (36) were in the runs but Cambridgeshire were dismissed for 211, a deficit of 32.

Lincolnshire posted 191 in their second innings, with Williams taking 3-39, meaning Cambridgeshire were set 224 to win.

But, despite a defiant last wicket partnership of 54, Cambridgeshire were bowled out for 179.

Wisbech chairman Bob Burgess said the club was proud to host the match and thanked all the people who made it possible.

He said: “We are able to host the fixture as the players feel welcomed and look forward to coming here to play cricket on a pitch that rewards effort.

“We could not host it without uncounted volunteer hours spent keeping the ground and pavilion up to a good standard.

“The club is proud of its ability to host the fixture and it’s association with the county board.

“For the town economy the fixture brings people in to stay at the local guest houses, catering companies get three days of business and our bar gets good trade.”