Beachill justified his top billing in Nottingham

Britain's hopes of having a home winner of squash's British Open ended when Australian David Palmer beat world number one Lee Beachill in a thriller.

The defending champion won 11-8 6-11 10-11 (0/2) 11-4 11-9 to set up a final against Amr Shabana, who beat Thierry Lincou 11-10 (2/0) 11-10 (2/0) 11-7.

"I was really desperate to win that match - it's pretty close to the best I've played all year," said Palmer.

Cassie Jackman, England's last survivor in the women's event also crashed out.