Gloucestershire v Lancashire: Visitors close on Division Two title

Lancashire edged closer to the Division Two title despite rain allowing only 33 overs of play against Gloucestershire.

The match in Bristol looks to be heading for a draw, but it is a similar story for nearest challengers Northants, who are playing Kent.

After losing the entire morning session to rain, Lancashire declared on 310-8 after securing a third batting point.

Will Gidman took 5-61 and brother Alex was unbeaten on 21 as Gloucestershire closed on 89-3 in reply.

It was a partial recovery from 48-3 after Glen Chapple, Kyle Hogg and Oliver Newby each took a wicket for the visitors.

Lancashire went into the penultimate round of matches with a 36-point lead over second-placed Northants, and only need to match their result to be sure of going up to Division One as champions.

Match scorecard