Essex opened the domestic first-class season with a victory by 286 runs in the three-day friendly match with Cambridge MCCU at Fenner’s.
In a dominant performance with both bat and ball over three days at Fenner’s, the home side were set a daunting target of 444 runs on Day Three. Chasing the tough total,Cambridge MCCU were bowled out for 157 in 52.4 overs with Simon Harmer returning 3 for 28, whilst there were a brace of wickets each for Aron Nijjar (2 for 28) and Ravi Bopara (2 for 35).
Following three figure innings from Alastair Cook and Adam Wheater on Day One, Nick Browne was denied a century of his own by just two runs when he edged into the gloves of the wicket-keeper when attempting to find the 15th boundary of his innings.
The match provided valuable time in the middle with Ravi Bopara (55) hitting a half century. Wickets were shared in the match as the bowling attack got overs under their belts.
The team now turn their attention to the first Specsavers County Championship match of the season when they visit the Ageas Bowl next Friday (5 April) to face Hampshire. After the match, Head Coach Anthony McGrath admits that he and captain Ryan ten Doeschate have a headache over team selection ahead of the game.
Hear from McGrath who spoke to Essex Cricket TV on Thursday:
With standard Adult Membership available from £188, including a wide range of benefits, why not purchase yours now and look forward to an action-packed summer of cricket?!
For more details including the different types of Membership packages available, please click here.
