WILTSHIRE'S final warm up match before the start of the Minor Counties Championship ended in defeat to a second-string Hampshire side.

Hampshire won the toss and chose to bat in a high scoring game at Salisbury.

The decision proved fruitful as contributions from Jimmy Adams (99), Chris Benham (48) and Lawrence Prittipaul (58) helped the away side to an impressive 271-8 off their 50 overs.

In reply Wiltshire lost two early wickets for 13 runs but an impressive third wicket stand of 140 between Joe Breet (122 not out) and Michael Coles (75) restored the situation.

But when Coles was out none of the remaining batsmen were able to support Joe Breet and Wiltshire fell 251 all out with 14 balls remaining.

Wiltshire manager Brian White was impressed with Joe Breet's first innings for the county. The county management hope the South African-born player will be qualified to play for Wiltshire in 2006 after qualifying for UK citizenship.

"It was a batsman's wicket and there were lots of runs for everyone to see.

"Joe has been getting lots of runs for Westbury and I wanted to see how he was at a higher level.

"Unfortunately he won't be around for us this season.

"Michael Coles is also playing well at the moment and hopefully that will continue for us through the season.

"I think if we play the way we have been we can do well.

"(Left-arm spinner) James Hayward bowled well.

"He only got figures of 1-50 but he was very tidy and at 18 he is definitely one for the future."

White said if the side can continue their current form then he they could challenge for the Minor County Championship.

Wiltshire play Oxford in Banbury over May 29 to 31 in their opening fixture.