ALL-ROUNDER Liam Dawson was stretchered off with what looked a serious Achilles tendon injury to mar a productive day for Hampshire in their Bob Willis Trophy match against Middlesex at Radlett.

The 30-year-old, who was part of England’s white-ball squad for their recent one-day international series against Ireland, fell awkwardly while batting during the final session and had to be carried from the field.

Dawson’s attacking knock of 43 had already helped Hampshire take a first-innings lead when he crumpled to the ground, visibly in pain after playing a defensive shot against Tom Helm.

There was a 15-minute delay while Dawson received treatment at the wicket, but it was already evident he would be unable to continue.

Hants opener Joe Weatherley said: "Liam’s such a big player for us and it was great to get him back from the England squad for this game – he brings so much and he was batting beautifully.

"It looked pretty nasty – we were quite flat in the dressing room. While we were supporting the guys on the field, we knew Liam was struggling.

"It doesn’t look too good."