Fuller Stakes Claim To Face Hampshire
9 April 2014
James Fuller proved his fitness for the new season by claiming three wickets on the final day of Gloucestershire’s match with Cardiff MCCU at Bristol.
The pace bowler, who was forced to return home early from his winter in New Zealand because of a hip problem, finished with 3-53 from 18 overs as the students ran up 282-7 declared in reply to the home side’s 388-4 declared.
All his victims were top five batsmen. Matt Taylor, Will Gidman, Tom Smith and Jack Taylor shared the other four wickets.
Fuller has now put himself firmly in contention for selection in the opening LV=County Championship match against Hampshire at the County Ground, starting on Sunday.
Smith also demonstrated his skills with the bat, making 43 as an opener in Gloucestershire’s second innings, which had reached 99 for two when the game finished in a draw.
Will Tavare was unbeaten on 24 when stumps were drawn.
Assistant-coach Owen Dawkins told this website: "We are delighted that James Fuller sent down 18 overs without any problems and that Will Gidman bowled tightly for 17 overs.
"As things stand all our bowlers are fit and available to face Hampshire. The only doubt is Gareth Roderick, who will have his finger injury assessed by a specialist tomorrow.
"Pre-season has gone well and we are all looking forward very much to the summer ahead."
