NEW Milton had reigning champions South Wilts on the ropes before Saturday’s Southern Premier League clash was abandoned.

The Green and Golds restricted South Wilts to 65 for four off 35 overs at Lower Bemerton, only for the weather to intervene.

Dan Loader took the early wickets of Eddie Abel and Jake Winter to leave the hosts reeling on four for two. James Haggaty and Nick Elliott also got in on the act with a wicket apiece before the rain came.

Lymington’s fixture with Alton lasted just 17 overs, paceman Matt Metcalfe taking a couple of wickets as Alton made 27 for two.

Bashley’s encounter with St Cross Symondians lasted fewer than 14 overs. Andrew Neal saw off openers Tom Foyle and Paul Hawkins and St Cross had reached 40 for two when the match was abandoned.

In Division One, Bournemouth saw their contest with Sarisbury Athletic end in the 36th over.

Sarisbury made their way to 100 for the loss of seven wickets, Dom Clutterbuck the pick of the visiting bowlers with four for 13.

Dorset spinner Jem Warner dismissed openers Ryan Covey and Jack Lovett as he recorded figures of two for 37.

Warner’s county colleague Rob Pack also claimed a wicket, trapping Dan Clouting leg before.