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Win instantly with Ambassador Cruise Line at The Cloud County Ground during the Metro Bank One Day Cup home fixtures this season!

Our Official Travel Partner, Ambassador Cruise Line, is proudly supporting the Men’s team throughout the 50-over campaign. They will be giving supporters the opportunity to take on the new ‘Win A Cruise Challenge’ during the interval at each of the four home matches.

Fans can visit Ambassador’s stand on matchdays to hear about their exclusive offers for Essex fans and their cruise experience. Additionally, you will have a chance to spin the wheel of fortune for an opportunity to participate in the interval ‘Win A Cruise’ challenge and win some other fantastic prizes.

Ambassador’s Cricket Legend’s Festive Getaway

Ambassador Cruise Line are pairing up with Cricket Legends once again for a Festive Getaway that combines a love of cricket with the warmest welcome at sea.

This festive cruise sets sail from the London Cruise Terminal, just 19 miles from The Cloud County Ground to Amsterdam, Antwerp, Rouen and Honfleur where you’ll experience wintry delights unique to each port of call.

Join Graham Gooch on board with fellow legends of the game sharing tales of cricketing past on and off the pitch.

Garry Richardson will host Graham, Henry Blofeld, Jonathan Agnew and Alex Tudor in the onboard Palladium theatre with various other experiences available on the ship to take part in.

You will be sure to be joined by many fellow cricket lovers on board and Essex supporters can take advantage of a 5% discount to save on top of their live offers by using CRICKET5.

 

We have entered the crunch period of the Vitality Blast campaign with the games coming thick and fast. Following Friday’s win over Kent Spitfires, the Eagles travel to Hove on Saturday afternoon before returning home on Sunday to face table-topping Surrey in the final group match at The Cloud County Ground this season.

Gates will be open from 12:30pm ahead of the 2:30pm will include a host of activities and entertainment for spectators of all ages to enjoy, including live music in the Fanzone and children’s entertainers. There will also be a chance to meet the team after play with a signing session taking place in the Eagles Area.

Play is scheduled 5:15pm, leaving plenty of time to catch the Euro 2024 Final which begins at 8pm on Sunday evening. Please note that the match will not be screened at The Cloud County Ground.

The Club are also partnering with First Bus again to offer ticket holders free bus travel to and from The Cloud County Ground. Ticket holders can find further information in their Match Pack which we be sent by email to the ticket purchaser on Saturday.

At the innings break, two pairs of spectators will compete in the Thatchers Apple Roll challenge to win a Thatchers gift pack. To be in with a chance of taking part, enter here. All entrants but be ticket holders and be over the age of 18.

Gates Opening Times:

Gates will open at 12:30pm and spectators can enter the ground at the Main Entrance on New Writtle Street or the Tees River Gate, located via Sky Blue Pastures. This is the closest entrance to Chelmsford City Centre and the Bus and Train stations.

Spectators are advised to arrive early to allow ample time to enter the ground and locate your seat. Bag checks will be in operation on entry to the ground and security will be present throughout the fixture.

Matchday Timings:

Gates Open: 12:30pm
Toss: 2pm
First Innings: 2:30pm – 3:45pm
Interval: 3:45pm – 4pm
Second Innings: 4pm – 5:15pmpm

In-Ground Entertainment:

• New for 2024 is the Essex Fanzone, where supporters can purchases drinks, enjoy the beer garden and soak up the atmosphere.

• Look out for Eddie and Ellie the Eagles who will on the concourse from 12:30pm with an opportunity for selfies!

• Pick up your 4/6 cards on the gates when you arrive, plus your Blast glasses, t-shirts and activity books for our young Eagles fans.

• Thanks to our Principal Partners Woodland Group, junior fans will have the chance to win a T20 replica shirt and be our Young Eagle of the Match.

• At the innings break, two pairs of spectators will compete in the Thatchers Apple Roll challenge. To be in with a chance of taking part, enter here. To enter you must be a ticket holder and be over the age of 18.

Matchday Purchases:

The Cloud County Ground is a cashless ground, which includes all food and drink purchases in the Doug Insole Pavilion and concourse areas. The Essex Cricket Store is located behind the Doug Insole Pavilion and is the only location which accepts both card and cash payments.

Accessibility:

Accessible parking:
Due to increased demand on parking spaces, there are a very limited number of spaces located at The Cloud County Ground on a first-come, first-served basis. Those with accessibility requirements are recommended, where possible, to take advantage of our drop off system where cars can drop passengers with accessibility requirements and their companions as close to the gate as possible.

Accessible Seating:
Accessible seating is located in The Kenton Group Stand and in Block 1 of the Tom Pearce Stand Lower for this game.

Carers can enter the ground on a companion ticket which is free of charge and must be arranged in advance. This is upon the presentation in the Membership & Ticketing Office or on the gate with proof of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for people under 16 years old.

We can also accept a Blue Badge and Access card.

Accessible Toilets:
Wheelchair accessible toilets are located behind the main scoreboard (Red Area), rear of the Doug Insole Pavilion (Blue Area) and adjacent to Block 25 at County Corner (Green Area).

New toilets are open for all spectators by Block 31, which includes wheelchair accessible cubicles. A Changing Places facility are also available by the Graham Gooch Cricket Centre

Ahead of Your Visit:

In the event of adverse weather conditions on the day of the match, please keep up to date with the prospects of play via the Club’s Twitter and Facebook channels.

Please note that the Prospect of Play phone line is no longer in use and all updates will be available online.

Travel:

Parking:
• Spectators travelling by car will need to locate a public car park in the proximity of the ground as there is no parking available on-site at The Cloud County Ground.

• The High Chelmer multi-storey will be extending it’s opening times until 6pm.

• Essex Members are able to pre-book parking at Meteor Way car park for £2. It is essential to pre-book online as spaces on the day cannot be guaranteed. Book your parking space here.

Public Transport:
• Essex Cricket have recently announced a partnership with First Bus. Ticket holders will be able to claim free bus travel on the day of the fixture. A code to claim the free travel within the First Bus app will be circulated via the Match Pack sent on Saturday.

• Chelmsford Bus Station is situated on Duke Street, next to Chelmsford Train Station, with connections to all over the County. Alternatively, bus numbers 13, 46 and C1 shuttles, stop on New London Road, which is approximately a two-minute walk to the Ground, via New Writtle Street.

• Chelmsford Railway Station is operated by Greater Anglia and is an approximate 10-minute walk from The Cloud County Ground. Regular direct train services depart from Chelmsford to London, Stratford, Shenfield, Romford, Colchester, Ipswich and Norwich. Chelmsford is situated on the Liverpool Street to Norwich mainline.

Ground Entry:

Spectators are able to enter the ground via the Main Gate located on New Writtle Street or through the Tees River Gate. Please enter through the gate nearest your seat location.

Members:
• The Doug Insole Pavilion is open for Members upon the presentation of a valid ticket. This area accessible by entering the ground through the Main Gate.

General Public Seating:

• Supporters who have purchased tickets can enter the ground by scanning the QR on your tickets that has been sent to you via email following your purchase. If you choose to print out your ticket, please ensure that the match details (including name and seat details) are included as per the image below. Make sure you have your match ticket available on your phone or printed out so it is easily accessible for ticket scanning on arrival. Please do not take a ‘screen grab’ of your QR code as that will not be read by the scanners.

• The Eagles Area will be in use throughout the Vitality Blast. Seating in the Eagles Area is unallocated and on a first-come-first-served basis. You will not be able to enter the Eagles Area if you have bought an allocated ticket. There is also a section of unallocated seating in Block 26a.

• In the event of rain forecast on the day of the match, spectators can bring a small umbrella into the ground but metal spiked umbrellas are not permitted.

• Please note, Blocks 27, 28 and 29 are strictly alcohol-free. If you are seated in those Blocks you will not be permitted to take an alcoholic beverage to your seat.

Around the Ground:

• Spectators are not permitted to enter the field of play during a T20 match.

• Spectators are permitted to move behind the Doug Insole Pavilion but please respect the players’ area and walkway.

• The Club Store and Membership & Ticketing Office will be open for spectators for the duration of your visit.

• If you experience any anti-social or discriminatory behaviour during your visit to The Cloud County Ground then, please contact your nearest steward. Alternatively, you can email [email protected] or text ‘RESPECT’ including your stand and issue to 60066.

• Public Wi-Fi is available at The Cloud County Ground for every matchday giving you the opportunity to share photos and videos of your Eagles experience. Simply logon to ‘EC-Public’ from your seat to access.

• Fab Little Bag dispensers are located in all female and unisex toilets to allow an easy, discreet and environmentally friendly disposal of sanitary products.

• The Club has installed a faith and reflection room. This is available to spectators throughout the duration of the match and is located within the Graham Gooch Cricket Centre.

• There is a sensory and family room situated near the Tees River Gate. Should you need to use it, please contact your nearest steward.

• The Medical Centre is located opposite the Main Entrance. If you require medical attention please make your way there or contact your nearest steward.

Food & Drink:

• The Food Court is located in the blue area of the ground by the Essex Cricket Store where Anne’s Pantry will be offering a variety of food, including gourmet burgers, bratwurst and hog roast.

• Enjoy cream teas and Prosecco which will be served on the Tiptree cream tea traditional double decker bus, located in the Fanzone area.

• The Greedy Vegan food van will be at the ground, serving a wide variety of vegan meals including loaded fries, vegan hot dogs and mac and cheese.

• Enjoy a range of spirits and cocktails at the Gin & Fizz bar by the Essex Fanzone.

• The Level Head Bar returns for 2024 in the Essex Fanzone and is the perfect space to relax with a drink in the beer garden and soak in the atmosphere.

• A new addition for this year is the 152 Bar. Located in the Essex Fanzone, the bar celebrates the heroics of Graham Napier’s world record innings and the most memorable T20 innings ever played at Chelmsford.

• The Doug Insole Pavilion will be welcoming Members with valid tickets through its doors and serving a wide range of hot and cold drinks from the bar. A choice of snacks will also be available to purchase.

• Anne’s Pantry will be offering a choice of homemade curries and other hot meals, cakes/snacks, and drinks from their refreshment kiosks located at the Graham Gooch and Sir Alastair Cook ends as well as in the Food Court.

They will be serving a range of meals suitable for all dietary requirements including vegan, vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free, as well as children’s portions.

• Other refreshment kiosks include bar areas located at either end of the ground in County Corner and Spinner’s Bar.

• Spectators are not permitted to bring alcohol into the ground for Vitality Blast fixtures. However, food and non-alcoholic beverages are allowed providing there is no glass or sharp objects, including cutlery.

• The Cloud County Ground is a cashless ground, so please make sure you bring a suitable method of payment for your visit.

Leaving the Ground:

Please note, the Euro 2024 Final will not be shown at The Cloud County Ground.

During T20 fixtures, spectators are not allowed to re-enter the ground after leaving.

At the conclusion of the game, we ask that spectators leave the ground in a safe and patient manner. Stewards will be on hand to help direct you safely out of the ground.

We hope you have an enjoyable visit to The Cloud County Ground and further information regarding the match, including squad announcements and a full match preview will be available on essexcricket.org.uk ahead of the match.

Get in touch with us by email if you have any further questions at [email protected] or via the Club’s official Twitter and Facebook channels.

Watch to watch the action

Fans can watch a live stream of the action via the Essex Cricket Matchzone where replays and statistics will also be available.

Commentary on the game will be provided by BBC Essex radio and can be accessed via the live stream or the BBC website.

Sussex Sharks v Essex | Essex v Surrey

Vitality Blast

The 1st Central County Ground, Hove | The Cloud County Ground, Chelmsford

Saturday 13 July, 2:30pm | Sunday 14 July, 2:30pm

 
A skilful display of death bowling handed Essex a 22-run win over Kent on Thursday that not only gave the Eagles a big morale boost, but also provided two more priceless points in the quarter-final race.

In a match that saw Sam Cook return to the Essex line-up, Paul Walter top-scored with an unbeaten 27-ball 46 as the hosts racked up 187-3.

Cook and Walter then strangled the Spitfires in the late stages of their chase, combining for figures of 1/50 from eight overs as the visitors struggled from 95-1 after ten to finish on 165-5.

Now, Anthony McGrath’s side face a stern double test over the weekend with a Saturday outing to second-placed Sussex Sharks before table-topping Surrey visit The Cloud County Ground on Sunday.

Squad

Head Coach McGrath has named an unchanged 14-strong group for the first of the weekend’s fixtures in Hove.

The Opposition: Sussex Sharks

Sussex have soared in this year’s Blast so far, winning seven of ten games to be in second place as the group stage reaches its climax.

The Sharks are just two points behind group leaders Surrey, and have won three of their last four games, including back-to-back El Clasicoast wins over neighbours Hampshire Hawks.

Their good form is a welcome change from the last two years, where the Sharks, who have won this competition once in the past – in 2009 – were eliminated in the group stage on both occasions.

Australian opener Daniel Hughes leads the way with the bat, having struck 354 runs at 35.40, while captain Tymal Mills is one of the most in-form bowlers around with 20 wickets taken at 15.00 apiece.

Sussex Sharks squad: Tymal Mills*, Tom Alsop, Jack Carson, Tom Clark, James Coles, Henry Crocombe, Brad Currie, Fynn Hudson-Prentice, Daniel Hughes, Danny Lamb, Archie Lenham, Nathan McAndrew, Ollie Robinson, John Simpson, Harrison Ward.

Last Time We Met: Sussex Sharks

Sussex claimed an ultimately comfortable eight-wicket win the last time the sides met at The Cloud County Ground just under a month ago.

Put in to bat, Essex could only muster a below-par 178-9, despite Dean Elgar’s 39-ball 54 and a quick 12 off seven from Luc Benkenstein, as Nathan McAndrew returned 3/33 from four overs.

In response, Harrison Ward and Daniel Hughes raced out of the blocks with an opening stand of 99 in just 6.5 overs, setting the Sharks up to overhaul the target with ease.

They did so a little under nine overs later, as Ward struck 68 off 36 and Hughes hammered 47 off 18, teeing up an unbeaten 45 off 28 from John Simpson that got the visitors over the line.

The Opposition: Surrey

Much like Division One of the Vitality County Championship, Surrey have dominated the shortest-format competition too, with last season’s semi-finalists sitting top of the tree with 16 points.

The Brown Caps have lost just one game from ten so far this season, with their only conquerors being Sussex in what was a top-of-the-table clash at the Kia Oval a month ago.

Since then, the 2003 champions have swept aside all comers and have the South Group in their grasp as they aim for a third Finals Day in five years.

Jamie Smith, who has been called up for an England Test debut, is their leading run-scorer with 285 at 40.71, while Australian overseas Sean Abbott claimed 15 wickets in eight games before he departed.

Surrey squad: Chris Jordan*, Rory Burns, Dan Worrall, Cameron Steel, Dom Sibley, Ben Geddes, Ryan Patel, Will Jacks, Laurie Evans, Jordan Clark, Tom Lawes, Sam Curran, Jamie Overton

Last Time We Met: Surrey

Having opted to chase in the final group stage game of the 2023 tournament at the Kia Oval last July, Essex were set 196 to win as Sunil Narine top-scored with 78 from 38 and six wickets were evenly split.

Michael Pepper’s 75 got Essex off to a flying start at 140-2 after 11.3 overs, but a mid-innings stumble meant that eight runs were still required by the time Sean Abbott came to bowl the last over.

Five singles were traded off the first five, meaning that Khushi had the task of hitting at least three off the last ball to keep alive the Eagles’ hopes of knockout stage progression.

Khushi hoisted a wide yorker towards Chris Jordan at deep midwicket, who, despite holding on, was unable to halt the momentum that carried him over the rope, confirming six and an Essex win.

South Group Table

How To Watch

If you are not able to attend either or both matches, each will be live-streamed – on hosts Sussex’s YouTube channel on Saturday afternoon, and then on the usual EssexCricketTV channel on Sunday with both available through the Essex Cricket Matchzone.

A report will be published on the Club website at the conclusion of each game, while live updates and highlights from both will be provided on the Essex Cricket social media channels.

Tickets

Hosts Sussex have confirmed that Saturday’s fixture is sold out.

However, there is still limited availability for Sunday’s match, with prices starting at £33 for adults, £28 for young adults and students, and £10 for juniors.

The Kenton Group Stand at the Graham Gooch End of the ground is the designated family stand for this year’s Vitality Blast, with blocks 27-29 being alcohol-free and blocks 30 & 31 being the alcohol-tolerant family area.

Tickets for the visit of Surrey can be purchased by clicking this link:

The Eagles Have Landed: The 2024 Vitality Blast at The Cloud County Ground

There is now just one final chance to catch Essex in home Vitality Blast South Group action in 2024.

With the Eagles firmly in contention for another knockout match as the group stage reaches its climax, demand for tickets remains exceptionally high.

As the 2023 runners-up continue to aim towards going one better in 2024, there is no time to waste to snap up your seats.

Sunday 14 July, 2:30pm: Essex v Surrey – buy here

Your votes have crowned Paul Walter the winner of June’s wefinanceanycar.com Player of the Month award.

The 30-year-old picked up 44% of votes on a poll on the Essex Cricket website, ahead of runner-up Michael Pepper’s 34.7%, with fellow contenders Dean Elgar and Luc Benkenstein garnering 14.7% and 6.7%, respectively.

Walter started June with two wickets in Essex’s first home Vitality Blast match of the season against Middlesex, and followed it up with a further seven T20 scalps over the rest of the month.

He also hit 96 runs in the shortest format, before following those performances up at the end of June with a sparkling century in the Vitality County Championship match with Durham.

Against the North East outfit, Walter underpinned Essex’s first innings with a fluent 134, the second first-class century of his career.

The Eagles Have Landed: The 2024 Vitality Blast at The Cloud County Ground

Fresh from a Finals Day appearance last summer, Essex are now back in Vitality Blast action for 2024.

With the Eagles sitting in fourth, and firmly in contention for another knockout match as the group stage reaches its climax, demand for tickets remains exceptionally high.

As Essex continue to aim towards going one better in 2024, there is no time to waste to snap up your seats.

Thursday 11 July, 7:00pm: Essex v Kent Spitfires – buy here
Sunday 14 July, 2:30pm: Essex v Surrey – buy here

Essex v Kent Spitfires

Vitality Blast

The Cloud County Ground, Chelmsford

Thursday 11 July, 7:00pm

Team News

Essex: Adam Rossington†, Dean Elgar, Michael Pepper, Robin Das, Paul Walter, Matt Critchley, Charlie Allison, Simon Harmer*, Eathan Bosch, Shane Snater, Sam Cook

Kent Spitfires: Daniel Bell-Drummond, Tawanda Muyeye, Marcus O’Riordan, Sam Billings*†, Joey Evison, Jack Leaning, Harry Finch, Tom Rogers, Grant Stewart, Matt Parkinson, Nathan Gilchrist

Match Details

Umpires: Neil Bainton & Chris Watts
Match Referee: Alec Swann
Scorers: Paul Parkinson & Lorne Hart
Toss: Kent Spitfires won the toss and elected to bowl first
Result: Essex won by 22 runs

Scorecard:View here

Match Highlights

Match Reaction: Paul Walter

Match Report

A superb death-bowling performance from the returning Sam Cook and Paul Walter helped Essex secure a 22-run Vitality Blast victory over rivals Kent at The Cloud County Ground.

Despite the Spitfires cruising in their chase at halfway, Cook conceded just 21 runs from his four overs and Walter 29 as the Eagles ultimately comfortably defended their 187-3.

Walter top-scored for the hosts in that innings with an unbeaten 46 off 27 balls that included three sixes, even in spite of Matt Parkinson’s restrictive 2/29 in the middle overs.

In response, Tawanda Muyeye made 73, but the tight bowling at the end of the chase kept Kent at arm’s length and ultimately had them end on 165-5.

Having been inserted, Adam Rossington struck two fours in the opening over off Grant Stewart to get the Eagles on the board, before notching back-to-back sixes from the same bowler in the fifth.

The opening partnership was worth 50 in 36 balls, and it was only broken when Nathan Gilchrist had Rossington held by Daniel Bell-Drummond at mid on for a 21-ball 36.

Michael Pepper picked up the baton and continued to demonstrate his ongoing purple patch with three consecutive fours off Joey Evison, before blasting Matt Parkinson for four and six before halfway.

The ten-over mark had Essex cruising at 92-1, and despite the loss of Elgar eight balls later, caught by Jack Leaning off Parkinson for a run-a-ball 33, the score ticked past 100.

The four full overs without a boundary that followed allowed Kent to build some pressure, with Pepper also falling to a catch off Parkinson – this time by Tawanda Muyeye for 34 from 20.

However, that was emphatically broken by Walter at the end of the 16th, as he smoked Marcus O’Riordan’s off-spin for six, before he and Matt Critchley followed it up by fittingly striking 17 off the 17th.

From several overs without a boundary came several overs filled with them, as Walter and Critchley continued to lead the charge at the death.

Critchley finished with a flourish, concluding the innings in the same way it had begun with a four and a six off Stewart to hoist Essex to a target that could be described as in the realms of competitive.

In reply, a tight start to the powerplay, that included the wicket of Daniel Bell-Drummond, usually productive at Chelmsford, for a scratchy one off seven by Eathan Bosch, gave Essex impetus.

A chunky partnership of 85 between O’Riordan and Muyeye allowed Kent to serenely progress up to halfway without further loss, and put the game right in the balance at 95-1 after ten.

That included Muyeye’s fifty, brought up in 34 balls and with three fours and three sixes, via a slower pulled single off Paul Walter.

With the pendulum constantly swinging, two wickets in back-to-back overs – Sam Billings to Simon Harmer and Muyeye to Shane Snater for his impressive 49-ball knock – kept things interesting.

Sam Cook claimed the wicket of Jack Leaning, caught superbly by Matt Critchley, to carry on the superb death bowling effort, alongside Walter, that led to the Spitfires needing 27 off the last.

It was a total that proved beyond them, as Cook rounded out his return to the team after an enforced lay-off to hand Essex a huge win in the context of the quarter-final race.

The Eagles Have Landed: The 2024 Vitality Blast at The Cloud County Ground

Fresh from a Finals Day appearance last summer, Essex are now back in Vitality Blast action for 2024.

With the Eagles sitting in fourth, and firmly in contention for another knockout match as the group stage reaches its climax, demand for tickets remains exceptionally high.

As Essex continue to aim towards going one better in 2024, there is no time to waste to snap up your seats.

Thursday 11 July, 7:00pm: Essex v Kent Spitfires – buy here
Sunday 14 July, 2:30pm: Essex v Surrey – buy here

Essex v Kent Spitfires

Vitality Blast

The Cloud County Ground, Chelmsford

Thursday 11 July, 7:00pm

After the resumption of the Vitality Blast at The Cloud County Ground was kiboshed by a washout against Somerset, Essex will hope for better weather when Kent visit Chelmsford on Thursday.

Persistent rain put paid to any possibility of play against the West Country side last Friday, before the Eagles were defeated by Glamorgan at Sophia Gardens on Sunday.

Now, with the run-in looming large and quarter-final qualification the primary aim, the penultimate home game of the season for the Eagles is the eye-catching Battle of the Bridge.

Squad

Head Coach McGrath has named a 14-player squad which includes the welcomed return of Sam Cook following an injury and Eathan Bosch who is in line to make his T20 debut for the Club.

The Inside Line: Sam Cook

The Opposition

Despite winning this competition for the second time only three years ago, Kent have largely found themselves in the doldrums this season, as they currently lie eighth, five points off the quarter-final spots.

They did begin with a crushing 98-run win over Middlesex – played at The Cloud County Ground – but since then, have tasted victory just twice more, including a run of five without a win.

That has contributed to their being just one place off the bottom, though a narrow DLS win over Gloucestershire on Friday at least brought those five consecutive losses to an end.

Captain Sam Billings has led from the front with his 315 runs at 35.00 putting him in top spot, while leg-spinner Matt Parkinson’s 11 wickets make him the Spitfires’ most potent bowler.

Kent Spitfires squad: Sam Billings*, Daniel Bell-Drummond, Joey Evison, Harry Finch, George Garrett, Nathan Gilchrist, Jack Leaning, Tawanda Muyeye, Marcus O’Riordan, Matt Parkinson, Tom Rogers, Ekansh Singh, Jas Singh, Grant Stewart.

Last Time We Met

Essex sealed a professional five-wicket victory the last time the sides met, at the Spitfire Ground St Lawrence in this season’s reverse fixture a little under three weeks ago.

After Kent were invited to bat first, the trio of Simon Harmer, Ben Allison, and Matt Critchley all took two wickets each as the hosts were restricted to 156-7, with Sam Billings’ 38 off 20 the only score above 25.

Michael Pepper then blazed 76 off just 42 deliveries, with his knock including eight fours and four sixes, as despite Nathan Gilchrist’s three scalps, the Eagles knocked the target off with five overs to spare.

The match was Paul Walter’s 100th T20 for Essex, while the two wickets that Harmer took, those of Tawanda Muyeye and Marcus O’Riordan – both bowled – took him to a century of Essex T20 scalps.

South Group Table

How To Watch

If you are not able to make it to The Cloud County Ground, the match will be live-streamed on the EssexCricketTV YouTube channel and will be available to watch through the Essex Cricket Matchzone.

A report will be published on the Club website at the conclusion of the game, while live updates and highlights will be provided on the Essex Cricket social media channels.

Tickets

There is extremely limited availability but a few tickets do remain, with prices starting at £30 for adults, £25 for young adults and students, and £7 for juniors.

The Kenton Group Stand at the Graham Gooch End of the ground is the designated family stand for this year’s Vitality Blast, with blocks 27-29 being alcohol-free and blocks 30 & 31 being the alcohol-tolerant family area.

The remaining tickets for tonight’s game are available on this link:

The Eagles Have Landed: The 2024 Vitality Blast at The Cloud County Ground

With the Eagles sitting in fourth, and firmly in contention for another knockout match as the group stage reaches its climax, demand for tickets remains exceptionally high.

As Essex continue to aim towards going one better in 2024, there is no time to waste to snap up your seats.

Thursday 11 July, 7:00pm: Essex v Kent Spitfires – buy here
Sunday 14 July, 2:30pm: Essex v Surrey – buy here

With four games remaining in the Vitality Blast group stages, there’s all to play for. Kent Spitfires are the opposition for the penultimate fixture at The Cloud County Ground in 2024.

The South Group is finely poised with Somerset, Essex and Gloucestershire all equal on points occupying the third, fourth and fifth spots in the table. Kent have endured a difficult T20 campaign but with plenty of firepower still present a challenge.

At the innings break, two pairs of spectators will compete in the Thatchers Apple Roll challenge to win a Thatchers gift package. To be in with a chance of taking part, enter here. All entrants but be ticket holders and be over the age of 18.

Gates Opening Times:

Gates will open at 5pm and spectators can enter the ground at the Main Entrance on New Writtle Street or the Tees River Gate, located via Sky Blue Pastures. This is the closest entrance to Chelmsford City Centre and the Bus and Train stations.

Spectators are advised to arrive early to allow ample time to enter the ground and locate your seat. Bag checks will be in operation on entry to the ground and security will be present throughout the fixture.

Matchday Timings:

Gates Open: 5pm
Toss: 6:30pm
First Innings: 7pm – 8:15pm
Interval: 8:15pm – 8:30pm
Second Innings: 8:30pm – 9:45pm

In-Ground Entertainment:

• New for 2024 is the Essex Fanzone, where supporters can purchases drinks, enjoy the beer garden and soak up the atmosphere.

• Look out for Eddie and Ellie the Eagles who will on the concourse from 5pm with an opportunity for selfies!

• Pick up your 4/6 cards on the gates when you arrive, plus your Blast glasses, t-shirts and activity books for our young Eagles fans.

• Thanks to our Principal Partners Woodland Group, junior fans will have the chance to win a T20 replica shirt and be our Young Eagle of the Match.

• At the innings break, two pairs of spectators will compete in the Thatchers Apple Roll challenge. To be in with a chance of taking part, enter here. To enter you must be a ticket holder and be over the age of 18.

Matchday Purchases:

The Cloud County Ground is a cashless ground, which includes all food and drink purchases in the Doug Insole Pavilion and concourse areas. The Essex Cricket Store is located behind the Doug Insole Pavilion and is the only location which accepts both card and cash payments.

Accessibility:

Accessible parking:
Due to increased demand on parking spaces, there are a very limited number of spaces located at The Cloud County Ground on a first-come, first-served basis. Those with accessibility requirements are recommended, where possible, to take advantage of our drop off system where cars can drop passengers with accessibility requirements and their companions as close to the gate as possible.

Accessible Seating:
Accessible seating is located in The Kenton Group Stand and in Block 1 of the Tom Pearce Stand Lower for this game.

Carers can enter the ground on a companion ticket which is free of charge and must be arranged in advance. This is upon the presentation in the Membership & Ticketing Office or on the gate with proof of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for people under 16 years old.

We can also accept a Blue Badge and Access card.

Accessible Toilets:
Wheelchair accessible toilets are located behind the main scoreboard (Red Area), rear of the Doug Insole Pavilion (Blue Area) and adjacent to Block 25 at County Corner (Green Area).

New toilets are open for all spectators by Block 31, which includes wheelchair accessible cubicles. A Changing Places facility are also available by the Graham Gooch Cricket Centre

Ahead of Your Visit:

In the event of adverse weather conditions on the day of the match, please keep up to date with the prospects of play via the Club’s Twitter and Facebook channels.

Please note that the Prospect of Play phone line is no longer in use and all updates will be available online.

Travel:

Parking:
• Spectators travelling by car will need to locate a public car park in the proximity of the ground as there is no parking available on-site at The Cloud County Ground.

• The High Chelmer multi-storey will be extending it’s opening times until 11pm.

• Essex Members are able to pre-book parking at Meteor Way car park for £2. It is essential to pre-book online as spaces on the day cannot be guaranteed. Book your parking space here.

Public Transport:
• Chelmsford Bus Station is situated on Duke Street, next to Chelmsford Train Station, with connections to all over the County. Alternatively, bus numbers 13, 46 and C1 shuttles, stop on New London Road, which is approximately a two-minute walk to the Ground, via New Writtle Street.

• Chelmsford Railway Station is operated by Greater Anglia and is an approximate 10-minute walk from The Cloud County Ground. Regular direct train services depart from Chelmsford to London, Stratford, Shenfield, Romford, Colchester, Ipswich and Norwich. Chelmsford is situated on the Liverpool Street to Norwich mainline.

Ground Entry:

Spectators are able to enter the ground via the Main Gate located on New Writtle Street or through the Tees River Gate. Please enter through the gate nearest your seat location.

Members:
• The Doug Insole Pavilion is open for Members upon the presentation of a valid ticket. This area accessible by entering the ground through the Main Gate.

General Public Seating:

• Supporters who have purchased tickets can enter the ground by scanning the QR on your tickets that has been sent to you via email following your purchase. If you choose to print out your ticket, please ensure that the match details (including name and seat details) are included as per the image below. Make sure you have your match ticket available on your phone or printed out so it is easily accessible for ticket scanning on arrival. Please do not take a ‘screen grab’ of your QR code as that will not be read by the scanners.

• The Eagles Area will be in use throughout the Vitality Blast. Seating in the Eagles Area is unallocated and on a first-come-first-served basis. You will not be able to enter the Eagles Area if you have bought an allocated ticket. There is also a section of unallocated seating in Block 26a.

• In the event of rain forecast on the day of the match, spectators can bring a small umbrella into the ground but metal spiked umbrellas are not permitted.

• Please note, Blocks 27, 28 and 29 are strictly alcohol-free. If you are seated in those Blocks you will not be permitted to take an alcoholic beverage to your seat.

Around the Ground:

• Spectators are not permitted to enter the field of play during a T20 match.

• Spectators are permitted to move behind the Doug Insole Pavilion but please respect the players’ area and walkway.

• The Club Store and Membership & Ticketing Office will be open for spectators for the duration of your visit.

• If you experience any anti-social or discriminatory behaviour during your visit to The Cloud County Ground then, please contact your nearest steward. Alternatively, you can email [email protected] or text ‘RESPECT’ including your stand and issue to 60066.

• Public Wi-Fi is available at The Cloud County Ground for every matchday giving you the opportunity to share photos and videos of your Eagles experience. Simply logon to ‘EC-Public’ from your seat to access.

• Fab Little Bag dispensers are located in all female and unisex toilets to allow an easy, discreet and environmentally friendly disposal of sanitary products.

• The Club has installed a faith and reflection room. This is available to spectators throughout the duration of the match and is located within the Graham Gooch Cricket Centre.

• There is a sensory and family room situated near the Tees River Gate. Should you need to use it, please contact your nearest steward.

• The Medical Centre is located opposite the Main Entrance. If you require medical attention please make your way there or contact your nearest steward.

Food & Drink:

• The Food Court is located in the blue area of the ground by the Essex Cricket Store where Anne’s Pantry will be offering a variety of food, including gourmet burgers, bratwurst and hog roast.

• The Greedy Vegan food van will be at the ground, serving a wide variety of vegan meals including loaded fries, vegan hot dogs and mac and cheese.

• Tinto’s Coffee Trailer will be back serving hot drinks, baguettes and sandwiches.

• Enjoy a range of spirits and cocktails at the Gin & Fizz bar by the Essex Fanzone.

• The Level Head Bar returns for 2024 in the Essex Fanzone and is the perfect space to relax with a drink in the beer garden and soak in the atmosphere.

• A new addition for this year is the 152 Bar. Located in the Essex Fanzone, the bar celebrates the heroics of Graham Napier’s world record innings and the most memorable T20 innings ever played at Chelmsford.

• The Doug Insole Pavilion will be welcoming Members with valid tickets through its doors and serving a wide range of hot and cold drinks from the bar. A choice of snacks will also be available to purchase.

• Anne’s Pantry will be offering a choice of homemade curries and other hot meals, cakes/snacks, and drinks from their refreshment kiosks located at the Graham Gooch and Sir Alastair Cook ends as well as in the Food Court.

They will be serving a range of meals suitable for all dietary requirements including vegan, vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free, as well as children’s portions.

• Other refreshment kiosks include bar areas located at either end of the ground in County Corner and Spinner’s Bar.

• Spectators are not permitted to bring alcohol into the ground for Vitality Blast fixtures. However, food and non-alcoholic beverages are allowed providing there is no glass or sharp objects, including cutlery.

• Please note that The Cloud County Ground is a cashless ground, so please make sure you bring a suitable method of payment for your visit.

Leaving the Ground:

During T20 fixtures, spectators are not allowed to re-enter the ground after leaving.

At the conclusion of the game, we ask that spectators leave the ground in a safe and patient manner. Stewards will be on hand to help direct you safely out of the ground.

We hope you have an enjoyable visit to The Cloud County Ground and further information regarding the match, including squad announcements and a full match preview will be available on essexcricket.org.uk ahead of the match.

Get in touch with us by email if you have any further questions at [email protected] or via the Club’s official Twitter and Facebook channels.

Watch to watch the action

Fans can watch a live stream of the action via the Essex Cricket Matchzone where replays and statistics will also be available.

Commentary on the game will be provided by BBC Essex radio and can be accessed via the live stream or the BBC website.

It was another thoroughly impressive month for Essex in June, as the Eagles kick-started the Vitality Blast with some sterling performances that now have the side in contention for another quarter-final.

As head-spinningly intensive as the schedule was, numerous members of the squad stepped up to produce match-winning performances that underpinned the success.

Now, you once again have the chance to choose the one who stood out more than any other, by voting one of these four contenders as June’s wefinanceanycar.com Player of the Month at the bottom of the page.

The Contenders

Michael Pepper

Pepper became the 11th man to hit a T20 century for Essex when he bulldozed a 44-ball 101 against Middlesex to start June off in the strongest possible fashion.

Many would have been satisfied with that, but Pepper in fact went on to hit a further 225 shortest-format runs in total across the rest of the month.

That included two half-centuries in three games, against Sussex Sharks and Kent Spitfires, the latter of which saw him slam 76 off just 42 to hand the Eagles a Battle of the Bridge victory in Canterbury.

Not content with that, he finished off June with a red-ball feat by matching the record for dismissals by an Essex wicketkeeper in one first-class match by claiming nine victims against Durham.

Luc Benkenstein

Having broken into the Essex team to start the Blast, England Under-19 international Benkenstein shone with bat and ball throughout the competition’s matches in June.

He played a match-defining knock of 35 from 21 balls to see the Eagles over the line against Glamorgan in the first Friday night encounter at The Cloud County Ground in 2024.

Entering the fray with the hosts 106-7, the 19-year-old played an innings of maturity beyond his years to hold up the Welsh side’s charge, and eventually managed to haul Essex to victory.

Benkenstein has gone on to bowl his bamboozling leg-spin repeatedly throughout the rest of the month, and was rewarded with another call-up to captain his country’s Under-19s two weeks ago.

Dean Elgar

Seasoned opener Elgar has continued to shine brightly in his first season as an Essex player, borne out by his continuing run of appearing on every wefinanceanycar.com Player of the Month vote to date.

His latest nomination comes after a June in which he totalled 195 T20 runs, including two half-centuries, from the top of the order.

He struck 54 off 39 against Sussex Sharks for his first fifty, before following it up with an unbeaten 60 off 44 in a canter to victory against Hampshire Hawks.

Elgar rounded out June by again underlining his credentials in first-class cricket, battling his way to 120 against Durham at the end of the month to drag Essex to a draw.

Paul Walter

A man firmly in form throughout June, Walter has shown the benefits of his winter stint with Brisbane Heat in Australia’s Big Bash League, leading the way in wickets for Essex in this year’s Blast.

The tall all-rounder has claimed 13 scalps in the competition so far, with 11 of them coming in June, and has claimed three in an innings on two separate occasions.

He remains a force with the bat too, though, and in the Vitality County Championship clash against Durham at the end of June, he hit the second first-class century of his career.

In the face of some potent Durham bowling, Walter struck a fluent 134 from 181 balls to underpin the hosts’ efforts to gain a second batting bonus point.

Vote for your wefinanceanycar.com Player of the Month for June

The Eagles Have Landed: The 2024 Vitality Blast at The Cloud County Ground

Fresh from a Finals Day appearance last summer, Essex are now back in Vitality Blast action for 2024.

With the Eagles sitting in fourth, and firmly in contention for another knockout match as the group stage reaches its climax, demand for tickets remains exceptionally high.

As Essex continue to aim towards going one better in 2024, there is no time to waste to snap up your seats.

Thursday 11 July, 7:00pm: Essex v Kent Spitfires – buy here
Sunday 14 July, 2:30pm: Essex v Surrey – buy here

Essex Cricket has announced Dan Feist as the new General Manager as part of an ongoing restructure at the Club.

Dan Feist, who will now oversee the day-to-day running of the Club, assumes this position following his role as Deputy Chief Executive.

This management restructure follows the news that John Stephenson is stepping down as Chief Executive.