Four wickets for Graham Hume and a half century by Alistair Frost have put Ireland in a strong position at the close of the second of four scheduled days against Gloucestershire Seconds.

The hosts resumed on 73 for 5, replying to Ireland's 207, and were soon in further trouble as Graham Hume continued his probing spell, taking two further wickets, finishing on 4 for 12 in 14 overs. On this display it's not hard to see why he has been called into the senior ranks for the ODI series against New Zealand next month.

Gloucestershire were 95 for 9 at one stage, but rallied with Tom Price (42*) adding 40 for the last wicket with Ajeet Dale, before Cian Robertson ended the stubborn stand with his second ball.

A lead of 72 was still a considerable one, and the visitors set about consolidating that advantage, despite the early loss of Morgan Topping.

James McCollum followed up his battling first innings 38 with another 30, but will be disappointed at his dismissal having done all the hard work.

Alistair Frost batted fluently for his 76, exhibiting patience and excellent shot selection as evidenced by his 14 fours and a six during his 136-ball stay.

He and Cade Carmichael (28) added 89 for the third wicket, but a late flurry of wickets saw both dismissed, as well as PJ Moor to give Gloucestershire an opening.

Whereas the pitch had been green and a little soft on the first day, it's showing signs of flattening considerably, and Pete Johnston's side will be hoping to extend their 250 run advantage by at least another 100 on the third day.

Play at Bristol resumes on Wednesday at 10:30am.

Close of Play, Day 2 of 4

Ireland Dev XI 207 and 178/5 (A Frost 76, J McCollum 30, C Carmichael 28) lead Gloucestershire 2nd XI 135 (T Price 42*; G Hume 4/12, G Kennedy 2-24, D Delany 2-45) by 250 runs.