Hampshire’s captain, Ben Brown, made headlines by smashing a double century on the first day of the innings against Sussex. He brought the full breadth of his amazing talent and undeniable determination. The ex-Sussex gloveman was instrumental in anchoring Hampshire’s innings after they endured a horrendous start. The game played out at the County Ground in Hove. Brown’s sublimely aggressive batting ensured his side’s first innings lead reached a formidable 226 runs.
Brown’s innings started under some fire as Hampshire were in dire straits at 119 for 5. This was the moment when his team needed him most, and he knew it. It was with a powerful sweep to square-leg that he completed his half-century, scoring a single off Carson’s bowling. Together, these three changes represented an unprecedented turning point for Hampshire. Brown relentlessly piled on the runs, scoring with a flurry of sweeps and nudges, primarily targeting the leg-side.
His innings of 71 runs off 129 balls was one of concentration and class. Brown was brilliant at managing difficult ball to the far post. This was especially evident once after John Simpson had removed him on 18. With wickets fast running out, this miss proved costly for Sussex as it allowed Brown to settle in and head Hampshire’s recovery, finishing on a classy 92.
Though Hampshire crawled slowly towards a modest target, Brown was central to much of the good fortune in a dangerous batting order. He was Hampshire’s eighth wicket, at 215. After again sweeping Carson for four, he was finally trapped at square-leg. It’s clear the outcome of the match changed with his departure. His contributions drove the team’s momentum after an 0-2 start.
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