Bowler leads Somerset revival after stutter

Somerset almost made a mess of their good work against Warwickshire at Edgbaston in the First Division of the County Championship as they slipped to 6 for 2 after bowling out their hosts for just 230.

Peter Bowler, on 54 not out, and Michael Burns (54) put on 104 to steer the visitors to 121 for 3 at the close.

In the Second Division, Kim Barnett, aged 41, scored 106 before being dismissed by Ashley Cowan, who claimed 5 for 68, as Gloucestershire scored 383 all out against second-placed Essex, who reached 11 without loss by the close.

Andrew Strauss hit 141 for Middlesex, one place behind Essex, against Glamorgan.

Fourth-placed Worcestershire skittling out Durham for just 120, Kabir Ali and the Australian fast bowler Andy Bichel both claiming four wickets.

Then Graeme Hick then hammered 119 not out off 157 balls, including a six and 20 fours, as Worcestershire established a 144-run lead at the close of play.

Northamptonshire's woes at the foot of the division were increased as Jason Gallian hit 100 and Chris Read an unbeaten 106 as Nottinghamshire amassed 339 for 6.