ANDOVER II hit form ahead of their new league campaign as they hammered local rivals Amport by 152 runs.

Harry Blackburn struck 89 not out and Sean Purchase 79 not out as Andover were able to post a formidable 260-1 from their 40 overs.

Amport’s reply never got going and two wickets for Mike Adams, Phil Greening, Ryan Ward and Dhanushkin Fernando restricted the visitors to a paltry 108-8 from their 40 overs.

Captain Martin Roberts said: “It was good to get some cricket in ahead of the season and to get the win as we want to create a winning mentality this season as we push for promotion.

“It is important that batsmen are scoring runs and bowlers are taking wickets and we are looking in good shape.”

Sponsored by Test Valley Windows, Andover were soon putting the Amport attack to the sword – openers Blackburn and Purchase putting together a stand of 164.

Middle order contributions pushed the score on further as Andover batted their way into a strong position.

Amport were soon 24-4 in reply as Adams and Greening struck with the new ball before the visitors briefly rebuilt.

It was then the turn of Fernando and Ward to get among the wickets with only Amport’s Adi Holewell (48 not out) showing resistance.

ANDOVER first team’s league game at Hursley Park was lost to the wet weather.