Hampshire set Northants challenging target

Friday's drizzle turned into a glorious summers day by Saturday, as Hampshire made hay in the sun skittling Northamptonshire out in the Frizzell Championship match at The Rose Bowl, and then setting a challenging declaration.

Resuming at 76 without loss the visitors soon lost wickets as first Mike Hussey fell to a leg side trap off Chris Tremlett, Tim Roberts who top scored with 60 also fell to the tall seamer, then Tremlett wrapped up his trio having Phil Jacques well caught. David Sales and Mark Powell stayed for a brief saunter, but the introduction of the spinners brought about a dramatic collapse.

Simon Katich started the ball rolling with a three wicket for 3 runs spell, and Shaun Udal polished up with his 3 wicket haul. Seven wickets had fallen for just 26 runs and in all the pre-lunch session saw all 10 wickets go for 100.

With a comfortable 102 run lead, Hampshire looked to press their advantage. First Derek Kenway gave his side a good start, then Simon Katich following his first innings century continued his excellent run of form joined by skipper Crawley. Together the gathered 131 unbeaten runs, slaying the hapless Northants bowlers. Katich finished 79* which included 7 fours and a hugh six, Crawley belying his recent bad form stroked the ball cleanly with excellent timing, striking 10 boundaries.

Crawley then declared setting the visitors a not unsurmountable task of 330 to win, there was 9 overs left in the day and 96 on the last day. Northamptonshire finished on 23-0 but not without some discomfort.