Marcus North made a timely return to form as Gloucestershire recovered from 77-3 to end day one of the Championship match against Northants on 258-4.

The Australian had averaged just 33 in four outings so far this season, but dug deep to hit a resolute 84 not out.

He combined with Alex Gidman (68) in a fourth-wicket stand worth 151 to ensure the hosts ended the day just in front.

Johann Louw was the pick of the home bowlers as he removed dangermen Will Porterfield and Hamish Marshall early.

Craig Spearman was the first to go as he was caught behind by Niall O'Brien for one off Johann van der Wath.

Porterfield then fell trying to edge Louw down the leg-side, only for O'Brien to dive acrobatically to his right to remove his Irish team-mate.

Louw struck for the second time when Marshall edged him to slip, and Andrew Hall grabbed the other wicket late in the day, trapping Gidman lbw with the first delivery after the tea break.