Essex and Worcestershire commenced a championship match on Wednesday at the County Ground, Chelmsford with the home side trailing their opponents by just three points, and seeking a victory that could take the side to the top of the table for the First time this season.

With three teams promoted into the First Division at the end of the season, each of the nine sides that currently compose the lower league hold chances of securing a promotion slot with only 29 points separating first and ninth placed sides.

The lowest of those teams, Middlesex have been docked eight points for an unfit wicket but have lodged an appeal with the ECB.

Although they have recently been missing the batting abilities of Graeme Hick who is in the England squad for the Triangular Series, Worcestershire have prospered thanks to the inspirational exploits of fast bowler Glenn McGrath.

The menacing Australian star has so far taken 40 championship wickets for his adopted country at an average of 16 runs apiece.

On Sunday at Chelmsford, Essex meet Derbyshire in a National League fixture.

Essex will need to win to retain their promotion hopes which realistically focus on achieving third place.

Surrey and Nottinghamshire, both having recorded seven wins in the competition, have already stolen a lead over the chasing pack that sees Essex currently in sixth place.

The county then enjoy a week's break before their next competitive match when they travel to Southampton on Sunday, July 30, to face Hampshire in the National League.

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