Essex claimed a commanding 63-run victory over Gloucestershire in the Metro Bank One-Day Cup at the Seat Unique Stadium, thanks to Shane Snater's impactful performance.
Snater, called into the Essex side after missing the previous match, delivered a crucial spell that dismantled Gloucestershire's top order. He took three wickets in just 13 deliveries, finishing with figures of 3 for 39. Chasing 263 for victory, Gloucestershire faltered early, with five of their top or middle-order batsmen dismissed for single digits, ultimately being bowled out for 199 in 36.2 overs.
Despite a valiant 63 from Ajeet Singh Dale, who formed a record last-wicket partnership of 85 with Tom Smith, Gloucestershire's tail-end resistance came too late. Earlier, Essex set a total of 262 for 8, with Luc Benkenstein scoring 67 and Robin Das adding 52. The pair shared an 88-run partnership that revived Essex after a shaky start at 86 for 4. Dominic Goodman led Gloucestershire's bowling effort with 4 for 43, while Singh Dale and Smith each took two wickets.
Gloucestershire's response began poorly, losing opener Miles Hammond lbw to Snater early. The top order continued to crumble, with Snater and Richards wreaking havoc. Only Cameron Bancroft, with 10 runs, managed to reach double figures among the top order before being caught behind off Ben Allison. The hosts were quickly reduced to 43 for 5, mirroring their collapse in the previous game against Glamorgan.
Graeme van Buuren and Ben Charlesworth attempted to stabilise the innings, adding 30 runs before van Buuren was run out for 21. Charlesworth's departure for 11 left Gloucestershire at 76 for 7, on course for another heavy defeat.
In the latter stages, Singh Dale and Smith's partnership offered some consolation, setting a new Gloucestershire record for the last wicket in List-A matches with their 85-run stand. Despite their efforts, Essex's early dominance ensured a comfortable victory, boosting their position in the tournament standings. Gloucestershire, facing consecutive losses, will need to bounce back in their upcoming away games against Surrey and Yorkshire to stay in contention for the knockout stages.