Division One leaders Somerset encountered stiff opposition from Hampshire on the second day at the Utilita Bowl. Somerset lost seven wickets for 113 runs and was bowled out for 288, only to see their 50-run lead evaporate in Hampshire's second innings. Hampshire reached 146 for one, taking a 96-run lead at stumps, with Nick Gubbins scoring an unbeaten 70. England prospect James Rew was the first to fall for 86 in the morning session, but his Test aspirations were praised by head coach Jason Kerr.

Kerr stated, 'He is a skilled enough player to compete at the international level, having scored numerous runs over the years.' Kerr has chosen not to use Rew as an opener, a position that may need to be filled this summer. 'If he opens the batting, that's great, but I recognize the middle order is well-stocked at the international level. A player of his talent should be considered for selection.' Somerset's coach emphasized that the team's needs should be prioritized and that Rew's opportunity to play for England should not be compromised.

'Could he open the batting for England? Absolutely,' Kerr added. In another match, Essex and Warwickshire were vying for control at Edgbaston.

The Bears were bowled out for 190, with Sam Hain scoring 88 not out. Essex then reached 110 for three, with Ethan Bamber taking two wickets.

In Division Two, the ball dominated at Bristol, where 23 wickets fell in two days of Gloucestershire's match against Lancashire. Lancashire initially looked dominant at 140 for two in response to 136 all out but eventually collapsed for 240, with Matt Taylor taking career-best figures of six for 43.

Lancashire responded with three breakthroughs in eight overs after the turnaround, including James Anderson's 18th wicket of the season. Gloucestershire will resume on 58 for three, trailing by 46.

Elsewhere, an unbroken stand of 131 between Nathan McSweeney and James Sales kept Northamptonshire in the game against Middlesex. Middlesex was bowled out for 341, nine runs short of a third batting point, but had their opponents struggling at 98 for four before McSweeney and Sales combined to shift the momentum.