Basingstoke to host Yorkshire clash

Hampshire will host Yorkshire at the Mays Bounty Ground in Basingstoke, starting on August 11

Hampshire will return to the Mays Bounty Ground in Basingstoke for the LV= County Championship Division One match against Yorkshire, starting on August 11.

It will be the second game in as many years at the historic venue, which last year hosted the thrilling two-wicket Hampshire victory over Durham.

Hampshire chairman Rod Bransgrove said: “After last year’s highly successful return to Mays Bounty it is fantastic that we are able to once again take first-class cricket back to our supporters in north Hampshire.”

Basingstoke Sports Club chairman Steve Rayner added: “The news that Hampshire have agreed to return to Mays Bounty is excellent for Basingstoke and cricket lovers in the area.

“I am sure that the town and its business community in particular will get right behind this event and make it an even bigger success than last year.”

Meanwhile, age-group coach Raj Maru has ended his 25-year employment by the county, although he will continue to work with their under-16s and under-17s on a voluntary basis.