Somerset's Rew Tipped for England Call-Up as Hampshire Fights Back

Somerset, the current leaders in Division One, encountered strong resistance from Hampshire on the second day of their match at the Utilita Bowl. Despite their strong start, Somerset lost seven wickets for 113 runs and were eventually bowled out for 288. Hampshire then took to the field, erasing Somerset's 50-run lead in their second innings and reaching 146 for one by the end of the day, with Nick Gubbins remaining unbeaten on 70. England prospect James Rew was the first to fall in the morning session, dismissed for 86, but his Test aspirations have been endorsed by head coach Jason Kerr. Kerr praised Rew, stating, 'He is a skilled enough player to compete at the international level, having scored a substantial number of runs over the years.' Although Kerr has chosen not to use Rew as an opener, the position that is most likely to be available this summer, he believes that a player of Rew's talent should be considered for the role. 'If he opens the batting, that's great, but I'm aware that the middle order is quite strong at the international level. However, a player of his caliber should be knocking on the door,' Kerr added. The coach emphasized that he wants to do what is best for the team and not compromise Rew's opportunity to play for England. When asked if Rew could excel as an opener for England, Kerr replied, 'Absolutely.' The day's events also saw Essex and Warwickshire engaged in a closely contested match at Edgbaston, with the Bears being bowled out for 190 and Essex reaching 110 for three. In Division Two, the ball dominated the proceedings at Bristol, where 23 wickets fell in two days of Gloucestershire's match against Lancashire. Lancashire initially seemed in control, reaching 140 for two in response to Gloucestershire's 136, but eventually collapsed for 240, with Matt Taylor claiming career-best figures of six for 43. In another match, an unbroken partnership of 131 between Nathan McSweeney and James Sales helped Northamptonshire stay in the running against Middlesex.