Gloucestershire’s bowlers made an impressive start to their Vitality County Championship Second Division clash with Yorkshire at the Seat Unique Stadium in Bristol, reducing the visitors to 90 for five in the first session. However, Yorkshire skipper Shan Masood rescued his team with a magnificent 140, his 26th first-class century, to guide them to a respectable total of 326 all out.
Masood’s innings was a masterclass in resilience and composure. He weathered the early storm and gradually built his innings, reaching his century off 140 balls with 15 boundaries. His partnership with Jonny Tattersall (56) for the sixth wicket was crucial in Yorkshire’s recovery, adding 100 runs to the total.
Matt Milnes also contributed a valuable 51, while Zaman Akhter claimed a career-best five for 85 for Gloucestershire. By the close of play, Gloucestershire had slipped to 28 for two in reply, with Chris Dent and Ollie Price dismissed cheaply.
Masood’s century was a timely reminder of his class and experience. The Pakistan Test captain has been in excellent form for Yorkshire this season, and his innings on the opening day of this match was a testament to his ability to lead from the front.
Yorkshire will be hoping that Masood can continue his good form in the second innings and help them to build a substantial lead. Gloucestershire, on the other hand, will need to find a way to dismiss Masood early and put pressure on the Yorkshire batting lineup.
