Neser formed crucial partnerships, including a 128-run stand with James Harris (47) and a 123-run partnership with Mitch Swepson (a career-best 69). Glamorgan’s top order had crumbled under the bowling attack of Chris Wright, Matt Salisbury, and Tom Scriven, as rain delays added to their woes.
Neser’s powerful century, his second in successive county innings, showcased his abilities as a genuine all-rounder. His innings featured 25 fours and two sixes, off just 202 balls, establishing his dominance at the crease.
The rain interruptions, which caused the loss of 181 overs, provided an unexpected turnaround for Glamorgan. The batters took advantage of the softening Kookaburra ball and the drying pitch under the belated sunshine.
Leicestershire’s decision to field only three seamers, with Wiaan Mulder unable to bowl, proved costly as Glamorgan mounted their recovery.
With hours of frustration due to weather disruptions, a draw or a bonus-point battle seemed the most likely outcome unless Leicestershire suffered a dramatic collapse.
93/7 ➡️ 403/9d
Every boundary from Michael Neser’s career-best 176 not out!#LVCountyChamp pic.twitter.com/Rl4C0oVkYA
— LV= Insurance County Championship (@CountyChamp) July 12, 2023
It was an impeccable innings from the Queenslandee who surpassed his previous career-best of 136, although he was dropped on 160. The final-wicket partnership of 59, with Jamie McIlroy, pushed Glamorgan to four batting points and left Leicestershire in a precarious position.
Reflecting on his innings, Neser expressed the significance of achieving his career-best and acknowledged the importance of every point at this stage of the season.
Glamorgan’s lower-order batsmen displayed their resilience and commitment to their contributions with the bat. Swepson’s excellent batting prowess complemented Neser’s heroics, adding to the team’s remarkable total.
While winning the game from this position and the lost playing time presents a challenge, Neser remained optimistic, emphasizing that anything is possible in cricket.