With the Dukes ball available to their bowlers, Essex had no hesitation in asking Lancashire to bat at Chelmsford. The only side to have won a match in the first two rounds immediately showed why they will be formidable challengers for the title this summer. Only a quickfire 32 not out from Will Williams helped the visitors up to a meagre total of 146, with Shane Snater doing most of the early damage, picking up four for 42. Noah Thain took his first Championship wicket (Tom Bailey). Feroze K...
