It was the longest day on the tour. An early start saw the boys break the hearts of Haileybury lasses as we headed off to Warnford in Hampshire. As we got off the Motorway and along the roads of headgerows and small villages with thatched roofs we found the Hampshire Hogs home ground.
The most increadible ground, quit essential English country side, and we were warmly welcomed. Straight to the toss and Harry chose to bat Sean and Ferg the pair. Unfortunately Ferg popped one straight to cover 1st ball, and we thought we might be in for a long day. Enter O.Lane. Sean and Oliver worked the ball well through all ends of the spectacular ground putting on a 120 run partnership before Ollie was dismissed for 54.
Sean was tremendous, stricking the ball beautifully reaching 103 off 104 balls before retiring. His partner in crime again was Harry with a solid 62 of 50 balls. We had 276 on the board off 46 overs. We thought a sporting declaration was the call.
We bowled well early, however a 3rd wicket partnership of 80 steadied the Hogs. Best of the bowlers was James Green with 4/31 off his 10 overs, with the other wickets evenly spread. A highlight was Peter Eastment on a Hat Trick, yet unforntunately no luck on the third.
A resounding victory of 102 runs to the Hutchins XI played in brilliant spirits and it was splendid all round.
Check the updated Score cards from the matches in Score card section.
We are now in Cholderton, just outside Salisbury which is the location for our T20 fixture against Sth Wilts who have a number of Hampshire Academy and Wiltshire reps should be a great game on Monday. However weather looks cold, possibly 12 degrees.
After 6 games and a heavy week everyone is looking forward to a few days off the pitch. We can’t wait to head to Wembley tomorrow for the England V Belgium match.
PS. The Coach is off duty tonight. I am sure he will provide a much better match report tomorrow than the tour manager.
Goodnight!