Heavy rain that swept through the country on Monday put a stop to Hampshire 2nd XI's good start in the ECB Second XI Trophy Final against their Kent counterparts on Monday at the Rose Bowl.

Asked to bat first under dull and overcast skies and on a damp outfield from the morning showers, Hampshire rose to the challenge, courtesy of a spirited innings from Alex Morris, who hit 38 in just 31 balls.

But he became the first of James Hibberd's two wickets in successive deliveries as Morris was bowled going for an expansive drive, and then Lawrence Prittipaul edged his first delivery to first slip.

Hibberd, a Southampton born all-rounder who still plays local club cricket for Southern Electric Premier League side Calmore Sports is one who perhaps has slipped the Hampshire net, after playing twice in the Under 19 Championship winning side of 1999.

Earlier, skipper Jason Laney was dismissed after making just four but James Adams and Morris ensured Hampshire got off to a good start nonetheless, and they will be looking to advance when play, weather permitting, resumes in the morning at 11:00am.

© Hampshire Cricket