James Bracey shines as Gloucestershire and Sussex battle on day one at Hove

In a thrilling first day of the Vitality County Championship Division Two match at the 1st Central County Ground in Hove, Gloucestershire put up a solid performance against Sussex, ending the day at 319-8.

The highlight of the day was James Bracey’s impressive innings, where he continued his good form from the previous game against Yorkshire by scoring 69 runs. Bracey, who had scored a century in Gloucestershire’s last game, once again showed his class with the bat.

Alongside Bracey, Ben Charlesworth and Miles Hammond also made significant contributions with half-centuries. The pair shared a crucial partnership of 106 runs for the third wicket before both were dismissed in quick succession.

Despite some solid batting performances from Gloucestershire, Sussex fought back well with Danny Lamb leading the bowling attack with figures of 3-49. Off-spinner Jack Carson also chipped in with two wickets to put pressure on the visitors.

However, Bracey and skipper Graeme van Buuren steadied the ship with a partnership of 47 runs before Sussex struck back with quick wickets towards the end of the day.

Overall, it was a closely contested day of cricket with both teams showing their strengths and weaknesses. The match is finely poised heading into day two, with Gloucestershire looking to build on their solid start and Sussex aiming to take early wickets to gain the upper hand.