In a gripping Rothesay County Championship match, Northamptonshire set a first-innings total of 409, thanks to James Sales' impressive 164 runs and Nathan McSweeney's 107. Their partnership of 164 runs was pivotal in establishing a 68-run lead over Middlesex, who managed 341 in their first innings. Middlesex began their second innings with a score of 109 for 1, trailing by 41 runs at the end of the day. Sales, who has now scored three centuries against Middlesex at Wantage Road, showcased his batting prowess, while tailender Ben Guthrie added a quick-fire 51 runs to bolster the total. Middlesex's Sam Robson and Max Holden remained at the crease, aiming to reduce the deficit further as the match progresses.