Essex won the toss in their match at Gidea Park & Romford, batted first, and there were two marvellous centuries to admire.

The first was a career best from Stephen Peters, 143 from 234 balls with one six and 16 fours.

Danny Law hit 111 from just 83 balls which included five sixes and 14 fours, and Essex declared before 5pm after only 88 overs.

Iain Letch, making his second eleven debut, made 25 as did Will Jefferson while Jamie Grove hit 33.

With 14 overs left, the MCC Young Cricketers reached a comfortable 56 for one.

On the second day, MCC had no problem with an assortment of bowlers, and added 111 in the first session and 102 in the second when by tea, they had lost five wickets.

All the time Sexton remained, and went on to reach 130 from 260 balls before being caught by Bishop off the bowling of Peters.

MCC declared 11 runs in arrears, leaving Essex with 20 overs to bat. Jonathan Powell ended the day undefeated on 52, at the close of 72 without loss.

In the morning session of the final day, Essex added a mere 55 and lost six wickets to the spinners, as overnight rain had changed the nature of the pitch.

Iain Letch got his head down and first with Bishop and then with the other debutant, Paul James, took Essex to a declaration total and safety.

Letch made an undefeated 80 off 152 balls and added 88 with James for the eighth wicket, both batting with application and skill.

Set 241 to win, the MCC YC went for the runs and played some sparkling cricket.

However, they lost their way at 95, losing three wickets and after a final flurry called off the chase with nine overs to go and 104 runs still required.

It was a game which although ending in a draw, demonstrated the depth of talent waiting in the wings for Essex.

Essex second eleven's next Championship match is over four days, against Warwickshire, at the County Ground in Chelmsford, on June 21, 22, 23 and 24.

Stephen Peters (left), and Danny Law, who both scored centuries in Essex's second eleven match against the MCC Young Cricketers.

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