Middlesex show bold intentions

Middlesex’s LV County Championship Division Two match against Gloucestershire at Lord’s looks destined for a draw after only 11 overs were possible on the third day because of persistent rain.

When the players finally got on to the pitch at 5pm, thanks to the efficient drainage system installed at the ground, Middlesex declared on their overnight total of 313 for seven, a lead of 95.

William Porterfield blunted Middlesex's attack after their attacking declaration at Lord's

But they were unable to make inroads into the Gloucestershire batting as the visitors closed on 30-0 with William Porterfield (20 not out) and Kadeer Ali (10no) both unbeaten.

Trying to take quick wickets to force a result Middlesex’s opening bowlers Tim Murtagh and Alan Richardson did not make the batsman play often enough so the five slips Richardson had at one point were mostly redundant.

He did find the edge of Porterfield’s bat in the second over but Murali Kartik at second slip could not get his fingers to the ball and the game is set to finish in a draw on the last day.

With the light fading Shaun Udal brought on spinner Kartik but the rain returned and forced the players off the pitch with the umpires abandoning play shortly afterwards.

The match though has little bearing on the outcome of the division with Gloucestershire anchored to the bottom of the table with Middlesex’s hopes of promotion ended in mid-season.