CORNWALL Over 50s reached the semi-final of the ECB 50+ competition with a convincing 96 run win over Hampshire, who had themselves reached the semi-final stage in the previous three seasons.

On a damp day at Grampound Road Cornwall were put into bat and, after losing Jon Nance to a fine catch at mid-wicket, made good progress to reach 60-1 after 10 overs.

The batting tempo then slowed as 12 runs came in seven overs — the prelude to a mini collapse which saw four wickets tumble for just 11 runs.

Andrew Jones and Paul Clements rebuilt the innings adding 44 and after Clement fell for 17 Steve Mitchell and Jones took the score to 184 before Jones went for 49.

Mitchell reached a maiden championship 50 and in partnership with Stuart Renshaw steered Cornwall to 230-7.

Cornwall struck early with Ian Bishop removing dangerous opener Dave Streather for nothing in the second over. Fellow opening bowler Dave Dunnett then took over bowling the top order away with a devastating spell of 4-12 in 19 balls which included a magnificent forward diving catch by Mitchell in the gully to leave Hampshire just 37-5.

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week’s edition of the Post.