Cheltenham Festival Hosts Stunning Double-Century Stand as Gloucestershire Seize Control Over Glamorgan
Gloucestershire, June 29 (ECB Reporters Network) – Miles Hammond and Cameron Bancroft’s brilliant hundreds have put Gloucestershire in the driver’s seat against Glamorgan on the second day of their Vitality County Championship Division Two clash at the Cheltenham Festival.
After dismissing Glamorgan for 197 in the first innings, Gloucestershire found themselves in early trouble at 17 for 2 in their second outing. However, Hammond and Bancroft turned the tables with a mammoth 201-run partnership, slamming the door shut on Glamorgan’s hopes.
Hammond scored a classy 121, showcasing his talent with an array of elegant drives and audacious slog-sweeps that earned him three sixes. Meanwhile, Australian Bancroft anchored the innings with an unbeaten 159, adding a crucial 170-run stand with James Bracey, who remained not out on 90.
“The flattening pitch and improved overhead conditions played a key role as Gloucestershire seized control, reaching 388 for 3 at stumps, a commanding lead of 370 with two days still to play.”
Earlier, Glamorgan had been shot out for 179 in the first innings, with Beau Webster starring with figures of 7 for 17. However, the visitors managed to gain a first-innings lead of 18 before Gloucestershire’s batting masterclass on the second day.
With the 100-ball cricket schedule and live action captivating audiences, the Cheltenham Festival has once again provided a stage for thrilling backyard cricket-esque performances, much to the delight of the club cricket enthusiasts in attendance.
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