Debutant Archie Bailey led the charge as Gloucestershire’s bowlers orchestrated a dramatic Middlesex collapse on an action-packed day three of the Vitality County Championship Division Two clash at Lord's.
Bailey’s impressive 4-30 saw Middlesex crumble from a strong 122-2 to being bowled out for 165, leaving Gloucestershire needing 234 runs to win on the final day. Zafar Gohar contributed to the chaos with 2-22 as the home side lost momentum after Sam Robson's brisk 50.
Middlesex wicketkeeper James Bracey added to the mayhem, recording 11 catches and a run-out in the match.
Earlier, Gohar had made a stylish 86, smashing a six and 10 fours, as Gloucestershire recovered from their overnight 154-5 to declare on 309-9, trailing by just 68 runs. Toby Roland-Jones, Middlesex’s captain, took 5-79—his fifth five-wicket haul in nine innings—leading the home side’s attack in their pursuit of victory.
Gloucestershire will now look to chase 234 on the final day to secure a win.