Leinster strengthened their grip on fourth place with an emphatic nine-wicket victory over Cork County, producing one of the most impressive chases of the weekend.

Set 225 for victory, Leinster made light work of the target as Luke Horgan struck a superb unbeaten century and Monil Patel provided excellent support.

Horgan dominated the innings from the outset, carrying his bat for 126 from 102 deliveries. His commanding knock contained 11 fours and six sixes as Cork County’s bowlers struggled to contain him.

Sanith Poojary helped launch the chase with 18, adding 70 for the opening wicket before he was dismissed by Diarmuid Carey.

That proved to be Cork County’s only breakthrough. Patel joined Horgan and the pair added an unbroken 155 for the second wicket, guiding Leinster to victory.

Patel played the supporting role perfectly, finishing unbeaten on 67 from 93 balls, with seven fours and a six. His measured innings allowed Horgan to continue attacking as Leinster completed the chase with more than 12 overs to spare.

Earlier, Cork County recovered from a dramatic collapse to post 224.

Donald Marakassery made 35, but Cork slipped from 55 without loss to 61 for four as Bilal Azhar tore through the top order. Josh Hartill steadied the innings with 29, while Nabeel Anjum added 32.

Zubair Khan then provided vital late impetus with a quickfire 34, striking two fours and three sixes. Diarmuid Carey also chipped in with 18.

Azhar was the pick of the Leinster attack with four for 46. Patel claimed three for 35, while Saqib Bahadur returned an economical two for 31.

However, Cork County’s total proved nowhere near enough as Horgan and Patel powered Leinster to a comprehensive victory that keeps them in with an outside chance of a title.