Somerset, the current leaders in Division One, encountered strong resistance from Hampshire on the second day at the Utilita Bowl. The team 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 finished the day at 146 for one, leading by 96, with Nick Gubbins remaining unbeaten on 70.
England prospect James Rew was the first to fall in the morning session for 86, but his Test ambitions were praised by head coach Jason Kerr. Kerr believes Rew has the potential to play international cricket, having scored a significant number of runs over the years. However, Kerr is cautious about using Rew as an opener, a position that may need to be filled this summer. Instead, he wants to ensure Rew has the best opportunity to play for England without compromising his chances.
In other matches, Essex and Warwickshire were locked in a tight contest at Edgbaston, with Essex reaching 110 for three after Warwickshire was bowled out for 190. In Division Two, Gloucestershire's match against Lancashire saw 23 wickets fall in two days, with Lancashire dominating at 140 for two before being bowled out for 240.
Gloucestershire will resume on 58 for three, trailing by 46. Meanwhile, an unbroken partnership of 131 between Nathan McSweeney and James Sales kept Northamptonshire in the running against Middlesex.