Charlesworth Century Leads Gloucestershire Fightback Against Leicestershire

Gloucestershire's Ben Charlesworth produced a magnificent century to lead a spirited fightback against Leicestershire on the second day of their Vitality County Championship Second Division clash at Bristol.

Charlesworth, 23, notched his second first-class ton off 164 balls, adorned with 14 fours and three sixes, as Gloucestershire reached 227 for 3 by the time bad light ended play seven overs early. James Bracey remained unbeaten on 34.

Leicestershire had earlier posted 402 all out, with Liam Trevaskis (50) and Tom Scriven (60) contributing valuable runs. Zaman Akhter claimed 3 for 110 for Gloucestershire.

Despite the blustery conditions, Charlesworth and Cameron Bancroft put together a solid opening stand of 50. Bancroft departed for 39, but Charlesworth continued to impress, reaching his half-century off 96 deliveries.

Ollie Price joined Charlesworth and made a brief contribution of six before edging to wicketkeeper Peter Handscomb. However, Charlesworth and Hammond put on a 65-run partnership, with Hammond showcasing some flamboyant shots.

Green provided a crucial breakthrough, trapping Hammond lbw for 29. Charlesworth survived a scare on 77 but soon reached his century with two towering sixes off Trevaskis.

Bracey provided steady support, but with rain looming, it remains to be seen if either team can force a decisive result on a pitch that has favored the batters.

Tags: #Gloucestershire, #Leicestershire, #VitalityCountyChampionship, #SecondDivision, #BenCharlesworth