KASHIF Ali's monster knock of 88 from just 36 balls paved the way for the Worcestershire Rapids to secure a 62-run success at Derbyshire in their penultimate Metro Bank One Day Cup match. 

Kashif hit seven sixes and eight fours in a mesmerising display of batting that saw the Derbyshire bowlers dispatched to each corner of the ground. 

He was ably supported by captain Jake Libby - who continued his fine form with 73 runs from 60 balls - in a 119-run fourth-wicket partnership.

That came after Libby had put on 95 with Rob Jones, who backed up his brilliant century against Northamptonshire with a half-century. The Rapids eventually closed their 30 overs (game was reduced after a late start) on a convincing 245-5.

Derbyshire opener Luis Reece (96) was also in good form to keep his side’s hopes alive and they had reached 145/2 at one stage, but the Rapids' bowlers, Pat Brown and Josh Baker in particular, did their job to skittle the hosts for 192.

It clinched a fifth win in seven games for the Rapids, who complete their group programme against Sussex at New Road on Sunday (11am start).

The Rapids have now won five of their seven matches in the One Day Cup and victory against the Sharks on Sunday will officially secure a place in the knockout stages, although they could still qualify if they lose, dependent on results elsewhere.

The top three sides in each of the two groups qualify, with the two top sides progressing straight to a home semi-final. The second-placed team in the group will host third in a home quarter-final to see who will reach the semis. 

Worcestershire could yet finish second or third, so it all rests on the final game at New Road on Sunday.