A last wicket stand of 18 between Damian Crowley and Din Alaud gave Italy a narrow one wicket win over Croatia in a thrilling encouter at College field.

Chasing what looked a relatively modest 90 for victory, everything looked to be going according to plan when Italy moved serenely on to 20 without loss.

Michael Grzinic (2-29) and John Vujnovich (3-19) inspired a spell which saw four wickets fall for just one run, as Italy suffered a serious wobble.

Hayden Patrizi crashed four boundaries in a quickfire 22, before skying to Wear at cover. Chris Pivac got in on the act, and at 57 for 6, the game was very much in the balance.

The score had moved on to 75 when Vivek Sharma, who had bowled a loose first over, then produced a triple wicket maiden. The second wicket was the result of a quite brilliant diving catch behind the stumps by Anthony Govorko.

After a nervy period, Din Alaud struck two boundaries to break the shackles, and with the scores level, Crowley crashed a cover drive to the boundary, much to the joy, and indeed relief of the Italian contingent.

Earlier, Croatia had batted steadily in scoring 89 for 6 in their 20 overs. Chris Pivac (22) had looked dangerous striking four boundaries, before being well caught on the midwicket boundary by Raso off the bowling of Andy Northcote (2-19).

Paul Vujnovich (28) anchored the innings, scoring the only six of the game. Craig Wear (15*) added 28 with Craig Sinovich (10), to give their side something to bowl at - in the final analysis though, not just quite enough.