WHAT a difference a week made for South Wilts’ seconds.

Seven days after striking a towering 393-4 against Hartley Wintney, the boot was firmly on the other foot as South Wilts’ saw their own attack mauled for 288-4, albeit by Sparsholt, one of the fancied Premier Division 2 sides.

The Winchester club had 50 on the board in seven overs and, when Richard Kenway (66) was second to fall, being bowled by Paul Draper, they were looking in a dominating position at 135-2.

Former Totton & Eling and Sarisbury Athletic captain David Banks was barely troubled, putting away frequent bad balls from the visitors, who weren’t to help themselves dropping several chances to stem the flow of runs.

When Banks brought up his sixth SPL hundred in the 49th over and then depart three balls later, they were to finish their innings on 288-4 – an imposing total which on another day may have been 50 less given some improved fielding.

Rob Pittman the pick of the bowlers going for 49 off 10 overs.

South Wilts also started well, 50-1 off 10 overs. However, when Tom Cowley (32) was somewhat needlessly run out just before drinks, any slim chance of the visitors pulling off a shock win was gone.

Regular wickets were to tumble, captain Tom Pearce, with 49 not out, the only batsman to provide some resistance, ensuring the side came away with as many bonus points as possible at 201-9.

Pearce’s side face another testing trip to Tichborne Park on Saturday.