Neil McKenzie hit the last ball of the match for four to guide champions Hampshire to a four-wicket win over Sussex in the Friends Life t20 South group clash at the Ageas Bowl.

Experienced McKenzie kept his nerve as wickets tumbled in Hampshire’s pursuit of Sussex’s modest total of 118-7.

Defeat almost certainly ends Sharks’ chances of reaching the knockout stage of the competition.

But they gave the hosts an almighty scare as some tight bowling put them back in the match.

Hampshire had seemed set to canter to victory at one stage.

Instead, they went into the last over from Scott Styris requiring six to win and a single was needed off the final ball. It was Styris’ first over of the match and he sent down a full toss with the final delivery.

As Sussex crowded the South African with a ring of close fielders, McKenzie lifted his shot to mid-wicket, ensuring Hampshire’s third win in four fixtures.

In many ways it was a remarkable match despite the low scoring because Hampshire, after losing the toss, were 73-1 at the halfway stage, needing only another 46 for what looked to be a comfortable victory.