Hampshire’s batting lineup faced a stern test on the opening day of their Vitality County Championship clash against Kent at Canterbury, as the hosts exploited the challenging conditions to restrict them to 213 for 7.
Matt Parkinson and George Garrett proved to be the tormentors for Hampshire, claiming three wickets apiece. Parkinson’s economical spell of 3 for 31 included the crucial scalp of James Vince, who had top-scored for the visitors with a gritty 88. Garrett, meanwhile, chipped in with 3 for 60, including the early dismissal of Fletcha Midleton.
The weather played a significant role in the day’s proceedings, with no play possible before lunch due to rain. When the action finally got underway, Kent’s bowlers made the most of the damp, overcast conditions. Midleton was bowled by Garrett for 8, while Joey Evison removed Toby Albert for 11.
Vince and Nick Gubbins provided some resistance for Hampshire, putting on 83 for the third wicket. However, Gubbins’ dismissal for 24 off Garrett’s bowling opened the door for Kent. Ben Brown and Liam Dawson both fell cheaply, leaving Hampshire in a precarious position.
Vince’s departure for 88, caught by Joe Denly off Parkinson’s bowling, was a major blow for the visitors. Parkinson then accounted for Dawson, caught by Charlie Stobo at second slip. Harry Finch missed a chance to stump James Fuller, but made amends by taking a sharp catch off Parkinson’s bowling to dismiss the batsman for 17.
As darkness descended, play was eventually abandoned for the day with 11 overs remaining. Hampshire will resume their innings on day two, hoping to build a more substantial total and put pressure on Kent’s bowlers.
