Jamal Richards hit an unbeaten second-innings century as a combined Essex/Kent Second XI drew with the South Asian Cricket Academy in a three-day friendly at Billericay.
Richards struck 109 not out from 134 balls, including 11 fours and two sixes, as the hosts closed their second innings on 316-7 after also declaring their first on 244-7.
In response, SACA amassed 235-8 in their first dig, before being allowed just enough time at the end of the third day to reach 19 without loss prior to the draw being agreed.
Luc Benkenstein continued his fine form from the previous Second XI outing with Warwickshire, though this time with bat in hand, striking scores of 59 and 55.
The latter came while opening the batting in the second innings, and he was joined in the half-centurion club by Ben Allison, who notched an unbeaten 62.
Meanwhile, Aaron Beard returned figures of 3/57 in SACA’s first innings, with Allison and Benkenstein also collecting a wicket each.
Sanaullah Khan was the standout bowler for the visitors, collecting 3/32, while Arav Shetty hit a fluent 67 in the middle order during the visitors’ first use of the pitch.
The Second XI return to competitive action on Monday, 29 April, with a trip to Utilita Bowl to face Hampshire in the Second XI Championship.
The Eagles Have Landed: The 2024 Vitality Blast at The Cloud County Ground
Demand remains exceptionally high, and there is now just one Friday night fixture with availability remaining, the visit of Glamorgan to The Cloud County Ground on 07 June.
With the Eagles aiming to go one better in 2024, there is no time to waste to snap up your seats.
Sunday 02 June, 4:00pm: Essex v Middlesex – buy here
Friday 07 June, 7:00pm: Essex v Glamorgan – buy here (LAST FEW TICKETS)
Friday 14 June, 7:00pm: Essex v Sussex Sharks – SOLD OUT
Thursday 20 June, 7:00pm: Essex v Hampshire Hawks – buy here
Friday 05 July, 7:00pm: Essex v Somerset – SOLD OUT
Thursday 11 July, 7:00pm: Essex v Kent Spitfires – buy here
Sunday 14 July, 2:30pm: Essex v Surrey – buy here
