Gloucestershire Secures First Home Win In 16 Matches Over Kent

Gloucestershire secured a thrilling three-wicket victory over Kent in a Rothesay County Championship Division Two match at Bristol, marking their first home win in nearly three years. Set a target of 162 runs, Gloucestershire struggled early, losing key wickets and being reduced to 57 for 4 and later 138 for 7, but Cameron Green's unbeaten 67 off 90 balls, featuring a six and six fours, guided them to victory with 13.5 overs to spare. Ben Charlesworth's unexpected bowling burst, taking three wickets in 14 balls, was pivotal in dismissing Kent for 253 in their second innings, triggering a collapse after a steady partnership between Chris Benjamin and Grant Stewart. Earlier, Gloucestershire had posted a commanding first innings total of 516 runs, with centuries from Green (128) and James Bracey (127) and a significant 222-run partnership. Kent faced challenges despite Nathan Gilchrist’s four wickets in the final innings and their initial resilience, ultimately suffering their second consecutive defeat. This win earned Gloucestershire 24 points, lifting them up the table and delighting supporters long awaiting a home victory.