Hampshire Second XI suffered a heavy innings-defeat as they were well-beaten by a strong Gloucestershire Second XI side at Cheltenham.

A disappointing batting performance in both innings of the three-day fixture meant that Hampshire never really were in contention to produce a positive result, after Gloucestershire had initially built a large lead in their first and only batting effort.

The frequent loss of wickets meant that visitors struggled to get going from the off, with runs proving hard to come by. The away-side had just 136 on the board before they were dismissed with the wickets shared around between the Gloucestershire attach.

In reply the hosts accumulated runs quickly as Miles Hammond (94) ensured they surpassed Hampshire’s first effort quickly and without incident. Hammond was well supported by C Herring (75) and J Taylor (74) as they built a commanding 317-run lead before then declaring on 454-9.

With an unlikely target set, Hampshire were again left frustrated by a strong bowling attack and their innings concluded on 150 with none of the top order again featuring as J Taylor added to his half-century with four wickets with Hampshire falling well short of the target required to force Gloucestershire to bat again. 

Words: Will Brewster