Gary Ballance has high hopes of Yorkshire success on day four of their Specsavers County Championship match against Somerset at Taunton.
Set a victory target of 321 midway through day three, Yorkshire reached close on 49-1 as bad light played its part late on.
The White Rose need 272 more to win, with Adam Lyth and Indian overseas batsman Che Pujara currently at the crease.
Day three saw Somerset bowled out for 200 in their second innings having started it on 6-0.
New ball pair Ben Coad and Jack Brooks took four and three wickets respectively, while Somerset captain Tom Abell top-scored with 82. He helped added 71 for the last three wickets, the only frustration of the day for Ballance and co.
“I think we had a very good day,” said the captain.
“The lads bowled well again, like they did in the first innings, and we started our innings well with the bat.
“We have put ourselves in a decent position. Hopefully we can start well tomorrow and see where it takes us.
“It was a bit frustrating (towards the end of their innings). But they played well. Abell played a good innings.
“Overall, we’ve bowled nicely. Credit to our bowlers, I don’t think we could have done much more. It’s up to the batters to put in a good performance.
“I’m confident. Obviously the first innings didn’t go as planned, but that happens. I’m sure we’ll put it right in the second.”
In terms of conditions, Ballance said: “If you get yourself in, as Abell showed today, there’s runs to be had. It’s hard work to get in. But if you can do that and get used to the pace, you give yourself a chance.
“We just need a couple of guys to get in and make it count.”
Albeit a shortened session with the bat for Yorkshire at the end of the day, it was a hugely important one because the loss of three or four wickets would have put a totally different complexion on things.
“It was a good session for us, losing just the one wicket,” added Ballance. “Hopefully we can start well tomorrow, build a few partnerships and kick on from there.
“We can’t look too far ahead. We just have to win that first hour and then session. If we do that, the rest will take care of itself.”
