Cricket fans and shoppers alike are in for a number of first-ever treats at Basildon's Eastgate Shopping Centre on Wednesday when Essex County Cricket Club visit the mall.

Between 11am and 4pm, the Essex cricket roadshow will be at the centre for the first time ever and situated just inside the South Square entrance.

They will be promoting cricket within the community and launching the new national cricket league Sunday competition.

However, Essex have also chosen the occasion to reveal their colourful new Sunday kit for the first time and for their new mascot, Eddie the Eagle, to make his first public appearance!

Youngsters will also be able to learn about the Junior Eagles fun club with a special offer for those who join in the day.

From around midday onwards, Essex players will be making guest appearances in their new Sunday kit to meet fans and sign autographs.

They will be led by team vice-captain and star all-rounder Ronnie Irani, one of the keenest competitors in the game.

Ronnie has made a big impact at Essex, becoming a great favourite since his arrival from Lancashire five years ago.

He made his full England Test debut in 1996 and has represented his country in one-day competitions.

Ronnie will be at Eastgate in person at 2pm to draw the winning names from those who entered the This Is Essex partner paper the Evening Echo's cricket competition.

He stressed the importance of the region to the club and told the Echo: "The Basildon and Southend area has tremendous potential for helping to shape the future of cricket in Essex.

"We are therefore working within the community to develop the game at all levels and to identify the young local talent who can become our team of tomorrow."

He added: "Everybody is delighted to be visiting Eastgate when shoppers will be able to learn a little more about Essex County Cricket Club.

"We hope to make many new friends and bring the team closer to the people of south-east Essex."

Eastgate's promotions manager Erica Marrett said: "This promises to be a wonderful treat both for our shoppers and for Basildon itself. We all look forward to providing Essex County Cricket Club with the warmest of welcomes on the day."

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