Second XI Match Reports

Somerset v Gloucestershire

Gloucestershire Second XI impressed once again in the short form of the game, with a 5 wicket win over Somerset at Rockhampton CC.

Somerset electing to bat first were pinned from the start with skipper Graeme Van Burren (1 for 7) taking the new ball alongside Matt Taylor (2 for 10). Both of them made an immediate impact, by dismissing the top order with their combination of spin and pace to unsettle Somerset leaving the away side reeling at 9 for 3. This brought to the crease Z Malik and W Smeed, who managed to rebuild the innings to give Somerset hope at obtaining a competitive total. However, Harry Hankins (3 for 19) continued with Gloucestershire’s positive start by dismissing both Malik and Smeed to restrict them to 108 for 8 in their 20 overs.

In reply, Gloucestershire had an initial wobble with George Hankins unfortunately dismissed first ball. However, this brought to the crease keeper batsman B Wells who accelerated the run rate scoring a quick fire 25 to help the home side recover quickly. Once he was dismissed, this brought the reliable Benny Howell to the crease to make sure Gloucestershire weren’t in any doubt of reaching the target. Graeme Van Burren also providing a late flurry at run a ball to also contribute with the bat also and see Gloucestershire safely home.

Somerset host Gloucestershire in the return fixture on the 7th June at Taunton Vale CC.