Somerset, the current leaders in Division One, encountered strong resistance from Hampshire on the second day of their match at the Utilita Bowl. Despite losing seven wickets for 113 runs and being bowled out for 288, Somerset's lead of 50 was short-lived as Hampshire fought back in their second innings.
Hampshire ended the day at 146 for one, with Nick Gubbins scoring an unbeaten 70, and a lead of 96. England prospect James Rew was the first to fall for 86 in the morning session, but his Test ambitions were praised by head coach Jason Kerr, who believes Rew has the potential to play international cricket. Kerr stated, 'He is a good enough player to play at the international level, having scored a significant number of runs over the years.' Although Kerr has chosen not to use Rew as an opener, he acknowledges that Rew's talent should be recognized. The coach emphasized, 'If he opens the batting, that's great, but I don't want to compromise his opportunity to play for England.' In another match, Essex and Warwickshire were locked in a closely contested game at Edgbaston, with Essex reaching 110 for three after Warwickshire was bowled out for 190.
Meanwhile, in Division Two, Gloucestershire's clash with Lancashire at Bristol saw 23 wickets fall in two days, with Lancashire eventually being bowled out for 240. An unbroken partnership of 131 between Nathan McSweeney and James Sales helped Northamptonshire stay in the game against Middlesex.