SOUTH Wilts staved off a determined Hampshire Academy comeback to secure a narrow six-run Southern Electric t20 Cup first round victory over the Young Royals at Bemerton, writes MIKE VIMPANY.
The Academy slipped to 15-3 chasing South Wilts’ 169-9, but rallied through Luke Webb (70) and Joe Weatherley (43), only for the run chase to dry up late on and finish six runs adrift at 162-6.
Ryan Burl (23) and James Hayward (21) gave South Wilts a predictably lively ten-an-over start which they maintained at the cost of wickets. South Wilts were 84-5 (Jack Mynott 24) off just eight overs until David Griffiths (2-22) and Mason Crane checked their progress.
Rob Pittman (27) and Rob Franklin (26) ushered South Wilts to an eventual 169-9.
Owen Alsop (4-26) made immediate inroads into the Academy’s top order, removing both openers in quick succession before the Young Royals dropped to 15-3.
But fifth-wicket pair Webb, whose fine 70 included two sixes and 11 fours, and Weatherley (43) batted the Academy right back into the game – mainly at the expense of Christian Pain, whose three overs cost 50 runs.
Griffiths, however, was unable to put bat to ball and the Academy, having needed 11 runs off the last over, finished six short on 162-6.
l South Wilts have been drawn away to old rivals Andover in the second round, with the tie due to take place on June 9.
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