Classy Hampshire prove too hot for Ireland

HAMPSHIRE began the defence of the C&G Trophy with a comprehensive eight-wicket victory over Ireland in Dublin, despite the absence of star names Shane Warne and Kevin Pietersen.

Captain Shaun Udal put Ireland into bat and his bowlers rewarded him by dismissing the hosts for 202 with James Bruce the pick of the bowling attack finishing the day with figures of four for 31.

Chasing 203 for victory, Hampshire quickly set about their task with opener Nic Pothas smashing 69 off 75 balls before he was finally dismissed lbw by Andre Botha.