BASINGSTOKE and North Hants second team’s promotion hopes took another dent as they were beaten by 54 runs by visiting second placed Fair Oak.

The visitors won the toss and scored 242-8 as Asad Abbas (59) and Ed Kemp (58) enjoyed their time at the centre.

Chris Chandler (3-57) was the chief wicket taker for the Bountymen.

Harry Smith batting at number nine was the home side’s top scorer with 41 as they were bowled out for 188.

He shared a ninth wicket stand worth 55 with Ash Neal (18).

The only other notable scorers were opener Max Harsham (36) his father Keith Harsham (25) and Brad Neal (23).

This weekend the team are away at Waterlooville.