A DRAMATIC run out off the final ball helped Colchester and East Essex's under-19s to T20 county glory at the Cloudfm County Ground.

Simon Fernandes’ quick thinking off the last ball helped Colchester's youngsters to an amazing one-run triumph in their final, against Saffron Walden.

It was a sweet ending for Colchester, especially as it was their third appearance in the Essex T20 under-19 final in the last four years and their first title.

Colchester had posted 135 for six, in their 20 overs.

And just when it looked as though they might lose out again, Fernandes' instigated a second run out of their innings to help his side dismiss Saffron Walden for 134 and lift the trophy following an incredible conclusion to the match at Chelmsford.

Colchester player-coach Jonny Bassett-Graham, who led the under-19s to their T20 success, says it was a superb victory.

He said: “I’m incredibly happy for them – to play that way and to get a win in those circumstances was superb and they thoroughly deserved it.

“To play in a county final at the County Ground is an experience that many cricketers never have.

“They played very well and showed great patience and self-belief to get over the line.

“We batted fairly well on what was a slow wicket and I thought 135 was a competitive total.

“Saffron Walden batted very well and were in the box seat but our bowlers and fielders were able to create chances throughout.

“We picked up wickets at the right moments and applied some pressure, going into the latter stages.

“Charlie Allison’s 3-18 was incredible in a T20 game and he picked up three crucial wickets and Jordan Milburn came back after a disappointing first over and showed incredible self-belief, for 3-26."