Gloucestershire Duo Shatter Record with Historic Opening Partnership

Gloucestershire's Cameron Bancroft and Ben Charlesworth shattered records on the opening day of their Division Two Vitality county championship match against Leicestershire at Grace Road. The duo forged a historic 316-run opening partnership, eclipsing the previous record of 315 set by Herbert Sutcliffe and Len Hutton for Yorkshire in 1937.

Bancroft, who scored his second century in as many innings, reached 160 before being dismissed. Charlesworth, in his maiden first-class century, contributed 126, including 10 fours and six sixes. Both batters enjoyed moments of fortune, with Bancroft dropped on 84 and Charlesworth surviving a no-ball on 58.

Leicestershire, who have drawn their first five championship fixtures, made changes to their starting lineup, bringing in Josh Hull for Ben Green. Gloucestershire, fresh from their victory over Northants, handed a debut to Beau Webster.

Despite humid conditions and a green pitch, Leicestershire captain Lewis Hill opted to bowl first. However, Bancroft and Charlesworth dominated the bowling, scoring freely and frustrating the Foxes. Bancroft reached his half-century off 84 balls, while Charlesworth struggled initially but eventually found his rhythm.

In the afternoon, Charlesworth reached his century with a towering six, while Bancroft edged Ahmed but was dropped. Charlesworth eventually fell for 126, caught at long-off off Louis Kimber. Bancroft followed soon after, chopping a delivery onto his stumps.

Ollie Price and Miles Hammond saw Gloucestershire through to the close, with the innings ending nine balls early due to bad light. Gloucestershire will resume on 385 for 2, with a commanding lead over Leicestershire.

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