Liphook & Ripsley v Easton & Martyr Worthy: OPENING batsman Ryan Covey carried his bat to record his first competitive century as Liphook and Ripsley beat Easton and Martyr Worthy by eight wickets at Ripsley Park to retain their National Village Cup Hampshire winners title.

The visitors’ innings was held together by 56 from skipper Ben Stanbrook as they posted a respectable total of 166-8 off 40 overs.

Covey was in total control for Liphook though, and he dictating the pace of the innings with a range of drives and cuts. Covey’s 104 not out came off 81 balls and included 14 boundaries, and he was well supported by the dependable Harry Munt (37) as Liphook coasted home at 168-2 in only the 27th over.

Liphook now host the Berkshire champions Cookham Dean in the first regional round of the competition, and the game will be held at Ripsley Park on June 24.