Hampshire enjoy a steady start against Nottinghamshire

Joe Weatherley frustrated the Notts bowlers during the opening session.

The two academy graduates reached a first wicket stand of 86, with Weatherley leading the way with a sumptuous 44 not out, with Soames on 24.

Weatherley and Soames had been put in by Nottinghamshire captain Steven Mullaney without a toss under grey skies but atop a good quality looking batting wicket.

And so it proved as Weatherley stroked the ball around nicely, with England Test opening bowler Stuart Broad for 20 runs in his opening three overs.

Weatherley, who returned to form with 44 against Warwickshire last week, was given a life when he was dropped on 21 by Chris Nash at third slip.

But other than that it was an easy going morning for the batsmen in front of a packed crowd at Newclose.