BARNT Green CC First XI are hoping to make it third time lucky this Sunday when they travel to Guisborough for the National Knockout semi-final.

The first XI have not reached the last four since 1991, when they lost to Teddington, and missed out by just one run in 1976.

Skipper Lyndon Jones said: "It's a massive game. Everyone at the club is keyed up for the Guisborough game and the boys are quietly confident.

"We have a good blend here and some experiened players who have been a good influence in the earlier rounds."

Now, Jones' side stand on the threshold of eclipsing those cup runs and booking a place in the final at Edgbaston on Thursday, September 5.

The final has been moved from Lord's to allow for essential ground work due to take place at the home of cricket during September.

Jones added: "The boys are disappointed it's not at Lord's but it's a crumb of consolation because Edgbaston is so close and it would be like a home game for us. A few of us have played at Lord's and it's the best ground in the world."

But Jones' side still have a game to win at Guisborough and he is not taking anything for granted.

"A lot of teams have underestimated them (Guisborough) and as a result have not played intelligent cricket," Jones said. "I think that we've been approaching these games in the right way and we'll certainly be doing so on Sunday."

The players are also assured of travelling support as fans are making the journey to North Yorkshire to cheer Barnt Green on.

The captain added: "It's been a bit of a logistical nightmare but our off-field team have been working miracles again.

"The whole club is buzzing with all three teams doing well in their respective leagues on a Saturday and with this cup run continuing, it's made for quite an interesting season so far."

There has also been a word of encouragement from Bromsgrove CC skipper Nick Husbands.

He said: "I really hope they do well because it's good for cricket in this area."