Hampshire Seal Sensational Six-Wicket Victory Over Kent

Hampshire's relentless pursuit of a Vitality County Championship title received a significant boost with a sensational six-wicket victory over Kent at the Ageas Bowl. The hosts, chasing a modest target of 179 in 31 overs, were propelled to victory by Liam Dawson's remarkable 29-ball 56.

Hampshire's triumph was set up by a dominant first-innings performance, where they amassed a mammoth 505 for 8 declared, thanks to centuries from James Vince (211) and Ian Holland (110). Kent's response of 343 was insufficient, despite Harry Finch's 84.

On the final day, Hampshire needed eight wickets to secure victory, but were hampered by the absence of Keith Barker. However, they made light work of Kent's resistance, with Kyle Abbott claiming a five-wicket haul (5-89).

Kent's hopes rested on Ben Compton's gritty 92, but his dismissal triggered a collapse. Finch (84) and Tawanda Muyeye (43) provided some resistance, but Abbott's relentless pace proved too much.

Hampshire's chase began with a blistering start from Toby Albert and Fletcha Middleton, who put on 41 in seven overs. Vince continued the momentum with a quickfire 32, but his dismissal and Middleton's unfortunate run-out left Hampshire needing 100 from 18 overs.

Dawson then took center stage, unleashing a barrage of sixes and fours to terrorize Kent's bowlers. His blistering innings, which included two sixes and seven fours, sealed the victory in just 23 overs.

Hampshire's triumph keeps them in the title race, with three wins in their last four matches. Kent, on the other hand, remain winless in the Championship since May 3.

Tags: #Hampshire, #Kent, #VitalityCountyChampionship, #LiamDawson, #JamesVince