Hampshire paired with Cheshire in C&G 2004 draw

Hampshire return to meeting Minor County opposition in the Cheltenham and Gloucester Trophy competition next season when they travel to meet Cheshire in the second round on 5 May 2004.

Having lost to Sussex in the first round this season, Hampshire's third place finish in the National League second division ensured they missed first-class opposition this time around.

It will be the third time the two counties have met in the different guises of this competition, with Hampshire having won the previous two meetings.

In 1981, Steve Malone's spell of 5-34 and 4-31 from Trevor Jesty led Hampshire to a comfortable six wicket win at the County Ground as Cheshire were dismissed for 137. Gordon Greenidge hit 56 as the home side reached the target with relative ease.

A rain-affected match at Chester did not stop Hampshire progressing in 1989 as Chris Smith (159) and Paul Terry (99) blasted the total to 306-2 in 60 overs. Malcolm Marshall then undermined the reply with 4-40 as the hosts were bowled out for 159.