Hampshire Defeated by Nine Wickets on Final Day

Middlesex claimed a comfortable 10-wicket victory over Hampshire, as the visitors hopes of avoiding defeat quickly disappeared on the final day in the LV= County Championship match at Lord's.

Heading into the final day with hopes of furthering their lead, Hampshire were unable to advance their advantage past 100, as the final three wickets fell for the addition of just 32 runs.

Needing just 74 runs to win, the hosts then safely reached their required target for the loss of one wicket.

A positive opening 30 minutes for both Danny Briggs (18) and Gareth Berg (25) had initially steered the visitors to 214-7 before both men fell in quick succession to thwart any hopes of reaching lunch without loss. The innings concluded shortly after the opening hour of play with James Harris (4-80) fittingly picking up the final wicket to finish with exceptional match-figures of 8-128.

In reply, an assured innings from Sam Robson (36*) saw the home-side safely home and although Berg removed the dangerous Paul Stirling (16), Middlesex always looked likely to secure victory on the final day chasing a small target.

Words: Will Brewster