Hampshire’s young middle-order batsman prodigy James Vince struck just the timely note yesterday reminding cricket associates of the Sussex born player’s batting pedigree, for a 19 year old of whom big things are expected.

A knock of 180 against an experienced Yorkshire bowling unit at Headingly saw Vince belie his years and play an innings of sublime touch, craft and intelligence helping him to notch up his first Hampshire ton. A resilient and hard working fourth wicket partnership with fellow centurion, Jimmy Adams, helped Vince to acclimatise to conditions under the tuition of the know-how opener but this breakthrough innings looks set to be a benchmark for many more cricketing accolades seemingly waiting to be had for the teenager.

Respected words of judgment last year from part-time Hampshire Consultancy Coach Duncan Fletcher distinguished the wealth of credentials the youngster has at his disposal. Comparing Vince’s style and manner at the crease to erstwhile England Captain Michael Vaughan, Vince who has been a stalwart in Hampshire Royals surprise Twenty20 success this season appears to have the cricketing nous and decision making technique to be able to take on and execute the majority of shots he employs from his repertoire.

Undoubtedly, it is too early to bundle a burden of pressure onto Vince as he is still very much learning and developing his natural game, however with a couple more years of top, first class experience under his belt Vince could well adhere to the various statements earmarking his batting temperament for such a young cricketer as international esc.