GLOUCESTERSHIRE go into today’s (Tuesday) Over 60s 2nds Cup final away to Lancashire in good heart after qualifying thanks to a superb six wicket win away to Yorkshire.
The home side reached 255-7 from their 45 after winning the toss, captain Steve Pennington capturing 3-46 while there were also two wickets apiece for Dave Tudor and Paul Silvester.
Gloucestershire’s batters then took control, led by a superb stand between opener Richard Graham, who was held just six short of a well deserved century, and Andy Macleod (63).
Tim Smith weighed in with an unbeaten 35 from 25 as his side chased down their target with five overs to spare to complete a memorable win.
It was a terrific day also for the 60s 3rds who held off Staffordshire by 40 runs to reach the Vase final.
Martin Hopkins (76) and opener Hanif Shaikh (54) dominated a total of 252 after winning the toss at Westbury-on-Severn before Staffordshire were reeled in by a disciplined bowling effort.
Sean Walters put the squeeze on with figures of 2-27 from nine while there were also two wickets for Peter Whyard as Gloucestershire went through to the final where they will be away to Essex, a game which will take place on Tuesday September 9.
Gloucestershire Over 60s, though, were unable to also reach a final after going down by five wickets against Cornwall at Corse & Staunton.
The home side compiled an extremely useful total of 262-8 from their 45 after winning the toss, led by captain Ian Robson whose superb 117 from 126 featured 13 fours and a six.
James Cotterill added 58, but the target proved to be well within reach for the visitors who got over the line with three overs to spare.