UNIVERSITY CRICKET: CAPTAIN LEADS AS SOLENT WIN

Skipper Rob Walters hit an undefeated century to sweep Southampton Solent to a five-wicket win over Exeter and give their British Universities Championship prospects a perfect lift off. Walters led from the front, scoring 109 not out as Solent chased down Exeter’s 260-7 to win with three overs to spare.  Somerset prospect Tom Abell (90) and former Winchester College all-rounder Oli Mills (55) shared a 136-run second-wicket partnership before Bashley Rydal’s had both men caught. Solent’s prospects of overhauling the Exeter total dipped at 108-4, but Will Steward, with a lively 58, and Walters took full advantage of the batting power-play and eased the Southampton students into the box seat. South Wilts’ spinner Jake Foley (37 not out) also played his part, providing timely support for opener Walters, who carried his bat for a match winning 109 not out. It was Exeter’s third successive BUCS defeat. Solent’s next Championship match is away to Loughborough MCCU next Friday.