I went out for a mini hike, and on my return find out Hampshire managed to chase down 267 runs to win. That has to be Hampshire's finest 4-day result of the season against a very, very good Essex attack. With regard to the game itself, cricket was the winner as both sides set out to win rather than draw.
From what I can see, Hampshire's batting has improved considerably right through the order. The openers are getting more runs, while the middle and lower order have been magnificent in bailing Hampshire out off trouble on a couple of occasions. If Hampshire can keep their pace attack, develop a spinner who can get 60 wickets in a season and improvve on this season's performance with the bat, just perhaps the title could end up at the Rose Bowl in 2024.