The County Championship saw compelling action across multiple divisions on the first day of play, with notable performances and tight contests unfolding. Here's a summary of the day's play:

Division Two: Leicestershire vs. Derbyshire

At the Uptonsteel County Ground in Leicester, Leicestershire amassed a robust 423-9 against Derbyshire. Opting to bowl first, Derbyshire's decision seemed questionable as Leicestershire's batsmen built substantial partnerships throughout the innings. Half-centuries from Sol Budinger (81), Ian Holland (74), Peter Handscomb, and Logan Van Beek propelled Leicestershire to their commanding total. Budinger set an aggressive tone early on, while debutant Van Beek, an international player from the Netherlands, made a significant impact lower down the order.

Derbyshire's bowlers, including Blair Tickner, faced punishment for their errors, though they had moments of success. Zak Chappell managed 2-74. Despite some breakthroughs, Derbyshire struggled to contain Leicestershire's batting depth. At the close of play, Leicestershire secured 4 points, with Derbyshire taking 3.

Division One: Surrey vs. Hampshire

At the Kia Oval, Surrey were bowled out for 253 against Hampshire, with opener Dom Sibley carrying his bat for an unbeaten 100. Hampshire's bowlers, particularly Brad Wheal (4-65), justified their captain's decision to bowl first, exploiting a grassy Oval pitch. Sibley's resilience was the highlight for Surrey, as he anchored the innings despite wickets falling around him.

Hampshire's reply reached 55-1 at stumps, trailing by 198 runs. Dan Worrall took the early wicket of Fletcha Middleton. Mark Stoneman and Nick Gubbins steadied the ship to close out the day. Hampshire claimed 3 points, with Surrey securing 1.

Division Two: Kent vs. Middlesex

At the Spitfire Ground in Canterbury, a day of tumbling wickets saw Middlesex dismissed for 222, with Jack Davies unbeaten on 47. Kent's Nathan Gilchrist (3-43) and debutant Kashif Ali (3-60) led the bowling attack. However, Davies' late partnership with Blake Cullen proved crucial for Middlesex.

Kent struggled in their response, reaching 172-6 at stumps, trailing by 50 runs. Harry Finch (49*) and Grant Stewart (46*) staged a counter-attack after Cullen (3-51) and Toby Roland-Jones ripped through their top order. Kent secured 3 points, while Middlesex took 2.