Good day for Hampshire in the Principality

Kendall lbw

Hampshire dominated the first day of their Frizzell County Championship match at Sophia Gardens against Glamorgan, posting a handsome 381 for 5 wickets.

Winning the toss on a warm sunny spring morning was important and John Crawley did not hesitate with his batting decision.

Alex Morris and Chris Tremlett were drafted in to thee team with James Adams returning to Loughborough University and Ed Giddins with a slight side injury. Glamorgan's early season problems were exasperated with the news that Stephen James had woken with recurring knee problems, this to go with Australian Michael Kasprowicz and Darren Thomas also sidelined with injury.

Skipper Crawley opened the innings with Kenway, and it was the latter who was first to go, edging Wharf to Dean Cosker in the gully. Robin Smith joined his captain to share a century opening stand before lunch. Crawley fell shortly after the break, receiving a smart in-swinger from the persevering Wharf, recording his third half century in successive innings.

Smith joined by Will Kendall continued to show much of his vintage batting skills, being particularly strong outside the off-stump, the partnership reached 63 when Kendall was trapped lbw. Thirteen runs later in sight of his 50th century for Hampshire he edged Harrison to the wicket-keeper for 92, smiting 15 boundaries in the process.

Despite this set back. The run scoring continued albeit at a slower pace when Nic Pothas joined Alex Morris. Pothas already with 146 not out and 48 to his credit this season, batted throughout the evening session for 81 not out, he shared the innings second century partnership with Morris who mistimed a pull and was out for 46.

I caught up with Robin Smith after the day and asked him how he attributed this early season form. "I have never felt fitter" said the Judge, "than I do now. Working with Bob Beatie in the gym this winter has been tremendous. I am really enjoying my game at present without the duties of captain to worry about, but it's early in the season yet, but I am pleased so far".