Second XI Match Reports

Gloucestershire v Hampshire

An opportunity arose for our Gloucestershire Academy Players to impress in the Second XI Championship with a fixture against Hampshire 2xi at Rockhampton CC. With a majority of Gloucestershire’s squad stationed at the Cheltenham Cricket festival, Graeme van Burren led a young and talented side. Hampshire won the toss and elected to bowl first in friendly bowling conditions with the weather forecast for the days ahead not looking hopeful for the fixture to be completed. Day 1 and Day 2 being abandoned due to the heavy rain despite the efforts of the Rockhampton ground staff.

Once play started, Hampshire dominated with the ball as Gloucestershire struggled against an accurate and swinging bowling attack. Ajeet Dale looked in sublime form and was rewarded for his consistency taking 4 wickets for 10 runs off 8.5 overs as Gloucestershire were dismissed cheaply for 78.

As the wicket dried and the weather improved, Hampshire in reply looked solid with opening batsman making a well compiled 80 before being dismissed by Academy spinner Max Shepherd (2 for 61). Continuing to bat at pace, Hampshire’s middle order took them to 238/5 and they declared to give Gloucestershire another opportunity to bat. 

Gloucestershire looking a lot more settled at the crease, Will Naish scored a quick fire 37 off 38 balls to start the innings off in style until he was bowled by A Dale. Tommy Boorman shut up shop for the home side to make sure a draw was ensured for Gloucestershire hitting a maiden half century for the Second XI finishing with 58 not out off 134 balls whilst he was ably supported by George Hankins (74*) as they made an unbeaten 122 run stand.