Laura denies Nicol's quest for sixth British Open title

In the semi-finals held at the Airco Arena in Hull, England on Saturday, Nicol lost 2-3 to homester and third-seed Laura Massaro in a gruelling and tense five-set encounter.

The tournament's top seed started off well after she managed to conquer the first two sets, winning them in 11-4 and 11-9.

However, the English player regained her composure in the third set and led from the start to win it in 11-9.

Nicol lost her momentum in the other two sets which saw Laura sealing them in 12-10 and 11-8. The epic encounter lasted 77 minutes.

For the record, Nicol has won the British Open five times, in 2005, 2006, 2008, 2012 and 2014.

Earlier, in another semi-final match, compatriot and tournament qualifier Delia Arnold's fine run at the competition came to an end.