Totton & Eling v Liphook & Ripsley: YOUTH led the way as Liphook and Ripsley’s first team made it two out of two to claim early leadership of Southern Premier League Division 1, inflicting a 91-run victory away to Totton and Eling at Southern Gardens.

Totton won the toss and invited Liphook to bat in good conditions.

Teenager Gabe Broadhurst, playing in only his second Southern Premier League match, made a fluent 64, sharing an opening partnership of 73 with Rob Nicklin (29). Broadhurst was well supported by Suman Ganguly (41).

Liphook then suffered a mini collapse, before new all-rounder George Neave helped push the total to 263-7 with a fluent 55 not out.

Ganguly and Neave started well with the ball as Totton fell behind the rate from ten overs onwards. Liphook were sharp in the field with all bowlers contributing with at least one wicket.

All of Liphook’s seamers bowled with good control while being ably supported by Dave Elliot, who took three wickets.

The home side never threatened to chase the total and were merely accumulating points as they slumped to 172 all out in the final over.