IT PROVED to be heartache for Shipton-under-Wychwood and Oxford Downs in the Oxfordshire semi-final of the Pipers Crisps Village Cup.

Shipton, twice winners of the national competition, were beaten by six wickets at Cumnor.

Batting first, the west Oxfordshire side got off to a flying start as Charlie Miller and Charlie Brain shared a quickfire opening stand of 46.

But the introduction of Alex Davies and Harry Ackland reduced the run rate significantly, the duo taking 3-14 and 3-26 respectively as Shipton fell from 67-1 to 144 all out.

Cumnor opener Jimmy Lee led his side’s reply with an excellent 68 not out as they cruised in at 145-4 with 12 overs to spare.

Oxford Downs fell to a 105-run defeat at Aston Rowant in the other semi-final.

The hosts opted to bat, and, thanks to 87 from Chris Watling and 84 from Alex Ferreira, they racked up 261-5 in their 40 overs.

Downs never got close in their reply, with Tom Brine, Alex Chapman, Adam Muttitt and Watling taking two wickets apiece.

James Lauder top-scored with 36, while George Sandbach chipped in with 29.

But Downs were bowled out for 156 by the home side.