Oxford students make progress against Hants youngsters

Hampshire gave first-class debuts to three players today, for the visit to The Parks for the three day match against Oxford UCCE. Seamers James Bruce and Mark Thorburn had played for Durham UCCE previously and Dominic Clapp an opening batsman had trials with Sussex in 2002.

Hampshire's previous two visits to the parks in 2000 and 2001 were completely washed out, so it was pleasant to see the sun shine through most of the day, although there was a touch of chill in the air. The trees looked resplendent, and if you have not visited the Parks before it is well worth it, and admission is free,

Will Kendall captained the young side in the absence of many of the senior players, being rested before more competitive cricket next week at Bristol and Old Trafford.

Losing the toss Joe Sayers chose to bat first, and he himself made a painstaking century, to lead his side to a good first day score of 281.

The Yorkshire contracted player played an innings almost reminiscent of Boycott, his century coming up after five and a quarter hours.

Apart from Cowan he was not well supported by the remainder of his team.

Thorburn bowled with some decent aggression, and was rewarded with the wickets of Lowe and Cowan, with the remaining seamers chipping in with a wicket each.

Shaun Udal the ran through the remaining batsman, finally having Sayers caught a long off, and the polishing off the tail enders to finish with 4-50.

There was just time for 7 overs in the evening, at which James Hamblin and Derek Kenway posted 36 without loss.