Cricket

Durham pulled off a thrilling seven-run victory over Kent Spitfires in the Metro Bank Cup on Sunday, keeping their hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive.After winning the toss and electing to bowl, Durham witnessed a superb century from Ben McKinney (115 off 116 balls) that propelled them to a competitive total of 307. McKinney's knock was studded with three sixes and 13 fours, while Bas de Leede (47) provided valuable support.Kent's chase got off to a promising start as Harry Finch (104 off 91 balls) and Jack Leaning (81) stitched together a 183-run partnership for the third wicket. However, the Spitfires suffered a dramatic collapse, losing six wickets for 71 runs.George Drissell emerged as the hero for Durham, claiming 4 for 38. His crucial wickets included Finch, Leaning, and Grant Stewart (3). Colin Ackermann (3-36) also played a key role in restricting Kent's scoring.In the final over, Kent needed 17 runs to win. Ackermann defended the target admirably, conceding only 10 runs and securing a memorable victory for Durham.The result leaves Durham in contention for the knockout stages, while Kent's hopes of progressing have been dashed.