Durham, Hampshire have little chance to escape relegation

Martin Speight (55) and Jimmy Daley (50) scored their first half centuries for Durham this season against Hampshire at Chester-le-Street today in the County Championship Division One match. Durham made 320 for 9 declared in 92.3 overs.

Hampshire reached 69 no loss in 20 overs in reply. With one day to go and a loss of almost two days to rain, a draw is almost certain. That leaves little chamce for both the sides to escape relegation.

The day began with Durham at 246 for 4 with Speight and Dalley going for big hits. Speight was recalled for this game as a batsman but was replaced by Andrew Pratt as wicket keeper. Pratt's unbeaten 27 made sure of a third batting point for Durham who declared at the fall of the ninth wicket, hoping to bowl Hampshire out twice.

But Hampshire openers Laney (26) and White (23) scored freely before Wood and Neil Killeen bowled tidily as they made 63 for no loss in 20 overs.