Some batting fireworks from Mark Ealham helped Nottinghamshire Outlaws claim an early lead in the Twenty20 Cup’s north division as they narrowly beat Yorkshire Phoenix.

Nottinghamshire reached their victory target of 208 in the final over to secure a three-wicket success at Trent Bridge, and Ealham’s 91 off 35 balls was the undoubted highlight.

He smacked nine sixes and five fours for the Outlaws before he was caught by Tim Bresnan off Richard Dawson.

Chris Read added 22, but it was a nail-biting finish as the hosts just got the runs they needed.

Matthew Wood’s unbeaten 96 was the highest individual score of the match, but it was in vain for Phoenix, who play again against Leicestershire at Headingley on Thursday.