Rain returns to halt Notts’ hopes at Hampshire

Nottinghamshire declared on their overnight score of 296, leaving James Taylor on an unbeaten 53, to set Hampshire 392 to win in 70 overs.

After a washed out morning session, play began at 1.20pm, but 40 minutes later a sharp downpour forced the players off.

In the 9.4 overs Adams and Dawson, Hampshire’s third different opening pair this season, managed 29 runs, both ending unbeaten on 10 and 19 respectively.

There was a brief hope that play would resume at 3pm, but the players reached the middle just as another shower brought about an early tea.

The rain has left the game meandering towards a draw. Notts had placed themselves into an authoritative position after centuries by Brendan Taylor and Alex Hales, who celebrated an England call-up yesterday.

Notts took a first innings lead of 95 after bowling Hampshire out for an unconvincing 276 before motoring at five an over on Tuesday evening to set an imperious total.