2021 County Championship – Gloucestershire vs Somerset Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When is Gloucestershire vs Somerset taking place? Thursday 20th May, 2021 – 11:00 (UK)
Where is Gloucestershire vs Somerset taking place? The Bristol County Ground, Bristol
What is the expected weather for Gloucestershire vs Somerset? Gusty winds expected on Days 1 and 2 with grey skies throughout and a chance of rain on all four days
Where can I get tickets for Gloucestershire vs Somerset? The County Championship will initially be played without spectators but it is worth checking each county’s official website for updates
What channel is Gloucestershire vs Somerset on? This match will not be televised live in the UK
Where can I stream Gloucestershire vs Somerset? Matches can be streamed live on the official websites and YouTube channels of the First-Class Counties alongside the England Cricket App.
THE PREDICTION
One of the standout County Championship ties of the round comes from Bristol where the two top counties in Group 2 go head-to-head for the second time this season. Their last encounter saw group leaders Gloucestershire pick up the local bragging rights after beating Somerset by eight wickets at Taunton. Tom Abell’s side will be desperate for revenge here, but know they face a tough battle against a side currently undefeated this season with four wins and a draw to their name. This feels like a battle between Somerset’s notoriously strong bowling attack and Gloucestershire’s stellar top order, featuring captain Chris Dent, West Indies test captain Kraigg Braithwaite wicketkeeper batsman James Bracey, who is coming off the back of being named in the England test squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand.
The Cidermen will look to the likes of Craig Overton for inspiration once again with the ball, as the fast bowler has been magnificent so far this season and like Bracey earned himself an England call-up this week. Spin bowler Jack Leach could also come back into the side, but whatever bowling outfit fielded by Somerset will be a formidable one. The duel between Gloucestershire’s top order batting and Somerset’s bowling will likely determine the outcome of this contest and with home advantage in the Gloucestershire’s favour, a flat pitch is expected to be prepared. However, the forecast for this one is poor and ultimately, rain may end up the overall winner and force a drawn match, which would be a real shame.
