Thirds snatch win from jaws of defeat

Hambledon's third string claimed victory over league-leaders Havant III at Padnell Park.

Skipper Martyn Shinn lost the toss and the visitors were put into bat - soon sliding to 97 for six (Matt Radford 31) after 28 overs.

The captain had targeted 150 but a superb partnership between Hew Richards (31 not out) and textbook Tim Rogers bludgeoning 45, followed by a quickfire 28 from Wayne Norman, turned the game in the Dons' favour.

Conceding 201 for eight, Havant were up against it but after 21 overs, the hosts were in a good position at 72 without loss.

Steve Ripiner bowled superbly with his 10 overs going for only 13 runs and both the openers fell in quick succession before wickets began to fall regularly.

After 38 overs, Havant were on 184 for seven and needing 18 off the last four overs.

Jack Dyer bowled a superb 41st over, taking two wickets and a run out by Adrian Magrath meant that Hambledon won with an over to spare by six runs.