Essex have landed the bonus of another home match at the start of next season because a pitch cannot be found for them at Lord's.

They were due to meet Middlesex at cricket's most famous venue in a National League clash on April 30. But now the fixture has been switched to Chelsmford.

"Several pitches have been relaid at Lord's and not all of them will be ready during the early part of the season," explained Peter Edwards, the Essex secretary/general manager.

"One that will be sees us in action at Lord's for a Benson and Hedges cup match on April 16, but that will also be used for other games before we are due to meet again in the National League.

"Middlesex were against playing a further match on that same strip and informed us that other relaid pitches would not be available.

"They wanted to switch the game to The Oval but we were against that idea as we felt that a neutral ground would attract only a small crowd. We suggested a move to Chelmsford and happily Middlesex agreed."

Middlesex will be better off financially as a result of accepting the Essex offer because they will be allowed to keep all the gate receipts from the match.

"Members of both counties will also benefit because they will not face any admission charges," revealed Edwards.

The switch means Essex facing four one-day competitive matches at Chelmsford during the first fortnight of the season.

The other three are all in the B & H when they meet Surrey on April 15, Hampshire on April 19 and Sussex on April 24.

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