Commanding Display Propels Hampshire Hawks to Five-Wicket Victory over Gloucestershire
Bristol, June 7, 2024 – In a commanding display, the Hampshire Hawks registered a five-wicket triumph over their South Group rivals Gloucestershire in the Vitality Blast at the Seat Unique Stadium. The visitors chased down a modest target of 125 with 3.1 overs to spare, led by a composed unbeaten knock of 41 from Toby Albert.
Electing to bowl first, Hampshire’s seamers enjoyed a disciplined outing, with John Turner, Chris Wood, Michael Neser, and James Fuller combining to bundle out Gloucestershire for 124 in 18.2 overs. Cameron Bancroft top-scored with 29, while Beau Webster and Matt Taylor contributed useful cameos, but the hosts struggled to gain momentum.
“The bowlers did a fantastic job in setting the tone, which allowed us to approach the chase with confidence,” said Hampshire captain James Vince.
In the chase, Gloucestershire seamer David Payne made early inroads, dismissing the openers Ben McDermott and James Vince. However, Toby Albert and James Fuller steadied the ship with a match-winning 61-run stand for the fifth wicket, guiding Hampshire to their second successive victory.
Albert anchored the chase, finding the gaps and running hard between the wickets, while Fuller provided solid support at the other end. The visitors comfortably navigated the final stages to seal a comfortable win and bolster their position in the South Group standings.
The result sets up a mouthwatering clash between Hampshire and title holders Somerset on Sunday at Taunton, while Gloucestershire will look to bounce back when they take on Sussex at home.
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