Nasser Hussain is cautiously optimistic about Essex's new season - which starts with Saturday's Benson and Hedges Cup clash against Surrey at Chelmsford.

"We've got talented players in the squad and 'll be looking to build upon the progress we made last season" the England skipper said.

"I don't agree with those who say it was all doom and gloom last year.

"Naturally we were disappointed we failed to secure a place in the First Division. But we only missed out by six points and finished 12th in the table - and tha's six places higher than in 1998 when we were bottom."

Hussain warned that the days when Essex had the likes of Graham Gooch, Keith Fletcher, John Lever and Neil Foster in the same side were long gone and it was the current squad people should focus on.

"We have to work with what we have and hope for a gradual improvement," Hussain added.

"Despite what some people might think, progress was made last year and hopefully it will be the same story in the weeks ahead. I am not going to make any promises.

"I'll be disappointed if we don't make it into the First Division, but I'll be even more disappointed if the lads don't play to their potential. It's up to all of us to work hard and make the best use if our talent. If that can be achieved then I'll have no complaints."

As England's captain and one of his country's contracted players, Hussain will be conspicuous by his absence for much of the summer when Essex take the field.

But he will be around to skipper the county in their early B&H Cup games and play in the first championship clash against Notts at Chelmsford on May 3 - although Ronnie Irani will be at the helm on that occasion.

"Ronnie and I have decided that any competition I'm fully available for, like the B&H, I will be captain" explained Hussain.

"But after that he will take over. After all, he is club captain and will hopefully lead us into Division One. I intend to play as much as possible for Essex and will be available for selection until the first Test against Zimbabwe in mid-May," he added.

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