Benny Howell's Half-Century Powers Hampshire to Vitality Blast Victory

Hampshire Hawks' Vitality Blast hopes were reignited as they secured a thrilling five-wicket victory over their former teammate Benny Howell's brutal half-century against Gloucestershire at the Utilita Bowl.

Howell, who had earlier claimed two wickets, turned the tide with a blistering 62 not out, smashing four sixes and five fours to equal his T20 best. His innings propelled Hampshire to victory, keeping their playoff aspirations alive.

Gloucestershire, who have never won a T20 at the Utilita Bowl, had earlier posted 176 for 9, thanks to Miles Hammond's 66 and Cameron Bancroft's 49. However, a middle-order collapse saw eight wickets fall in 33 balls, with Brad Wheal claiming four for 35.

In reply, Hampshire lost Ben McDermott early, but Howell's onslaught shifted the momentum. He took on Marchant de Lange, hitting two sixes and surviving a drop to reach his half-century in just 22 balls.

Despite losing Joe Weatherley, Howell and James Fuller guided Hampshire home with four balls to spare. Howell's match-winning knock included a boundary off the final delivery, sparking jubilation among the home crowd.

The victory leaves Hampshire four points adrift of the qualification places with three matches remaining, while Gloucestershire remain two points behind Essex in fourth.

Tags: #VitalityBlast, #HampshireHawks, #Gloucestershire, #BennyHowell, #BradWheal