An exceptional century from Joe Weatherley (111) guided Hampshire Second XI to an impressive six-wicket win over Glamorgan Second XI in the 50-over Trophy fixture at the Utilita Bowl.

Skipper Weatherley led his side’s chasing effort from the front after Glamorgan had initially scored 257-8 from their allotted overs largely thanks to half-centuries from J Tector (91) and J Lawlor (53).

Three wickets for seamer Brad Wheal (3-33) had restricted the visitors however, whilst Hampshire timed their chase to perfection with Weatherley well supported by an impressive Brad Taylor (74*) who finished unbeaten to guide the hosts home to a valuable victory.

An excellent opening partnership between Glamorgan openers Lawlor and Tector saw the away-side get off to a tremendous start, and they soon found themselves with a solid platform with the score 130-0 at the half-way stage.

Both batsman brought up half-centuries and although the former fell shortly after at the hands pf Taylor (1-41), Tector continued to take the attack to the bowlers.

Despite being just nine runs away from his century, he fell at the hands of paceman Moin Ashraf (1-40) and the scalp soon sparked a small collapse with five wickets falling for the addition of just 63 runs – the spoils shared between pace trio Jackson Bird (2-37), Basil Akram (1-49) and Wheal.

Hampshire recovered well from the early loss of Lewis McManus (6) to pass 100 for the loss of just one wicket, courtesy of a 95-run partnership between Weatherley and Arron West (29).

West and Sean Terry (3) were dismissed in quick succession but Taylor combined well with Weatherley to guide Hampshire to 182-3.

With 12 overs still remaining and just 75 needed the home-side looked to be in control and despite the captain falling following his magnificent century, the composed Taylor and Andy Gorvin (21) saw Hampshire comfortably home with eight deliveries to spare. 

Words: Will Brewster