Lawrence helps Essex beat Bears to make Finals Day

Dan Lawrence guided Essex's chase until he was out in the 19th over

Dan Lawrence returned from England duty to hit an excellent half-century as Essex crept past Birmingham Bears by two wickets to make T20 Finals Day for the sixth time.

But it was another disappointing night for the Bears as they went out of the competition at the last-eight stage for the ninth time in 12 attempts.

The Bears' hopes were ended in the quarter-finals a year ago by Hampshire when they were bowled out for 82 and lost by a record 104 runs.

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But, although they lost on home soil in the quarter-finals for the second year running, this one was a lot closer.

Although the Bears total of 167-7 looked to be not quite enough, despite 52 from Sam Hain, Essex then buckled late on in reply.

After losing Lawrence for 62 at the start of the 19th over and then Simon Harmer in a controversial run-out, it was the penultimate ball before Shane Snater struck a straight drive back over Oliver Hannon-Dalby's head for six to clinch victory.

More to follow.

Sam Hain's haul of five 50s in one T20 campaign is a personal best for him