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 promising start, Somerset lost seven wickets for 113 runs and were eventually bowled out for 288. However, Hampshire's second innings saw them take the lead, reaching 146 for one and a 96-run advantage by the end of the day, with Nick Gubbins remaining unbeaten on 70.
James Rew, a potential England player, was the first to fall in the morning session, scoring 86. Somerset's head coach, Jason Kerr, expressed his support for Rew's Test ambitions, stating that he has the potential to play international cricket. Kerr believes Rew could excel in any position, including as an opener, but prioritizes the team's needs. The coach is hesitant to use Rew as an opener, given the current strength of the middle order at the international level.
Meanwhile, other County Championship matches saw Essex and Warwickshire engaged in a closely contested game at Edgbaston, while Gloucestershire and Lancashire experienced a high-scoring match in Division Two, with the ball dominating the game. An unbroken partnership between Nathan McSweeney and James Sales helped Northamptonshire stay in the running against Middlesex.