Worcestershire CCC Academy player Josh Haynes hit a half century for holders the Midlands but finished on the losing side against the North on day two of the Super Fours at Loughborough.
Haynes, who was skippering the Midlands side, opted to bat after winning the toss and led by example in opening the innings and making 54.
He struck seven fours in his 62 ball knock before being second out at 97 after adding 55 with Lyndon James.
The Midlands were well placed at 196-3 in the 40th over but then lost their last seven wickets for 38 runs.
They were eventually bowled out for 234 in 49.1 overs.
The North made light of their target thanks to a fine century from Harry Brookwho struck 125 off just 98 balls with two sixes and 19 fours.
He shared in a second wicket stand of 126 with Sam Oldham (50) as the North won by six wickets with 9.4 overs to spare and gained revenge for last year's defeat in the final.
Haynes bowled three overs for 20 runs and another Worcestershire pathway player in Adam Finch, who was handed his Super Fours debut, scored three not out and sent down two overs for 20 runs.
After today's rest day, the Midlands, who defeated the South and West on day one, must overcome London and the East tomorrow (Friday) to qualify for the final.