Essex looking forward to the start of the County Championship season! First up, they will face the defending champions, Surrey, at home on April 4th. Despite a key change in their coaching lineup, Essex remains optimistic about their upcoming matches. Chris Silverwood was supposed to be steering the team across the line during a deceptively tricky first seven games. Instead, he’ll play in the domestic Indian Premier League (IPL) as an injury replacement for the Lucknow Super Giants. As a result, Essex are in the market for a replacement for Shardul Thakur, who cancelled his contract with the club.
Silverwood, an influential character in Essex’s cricketing folklore, had guided the Essex to their first title in 2017 and then again in 2019. Under his tenure, Essex went on to win the Bob Willis Trophy in 2020. He insists he’s still optimistic about what this team can be and there’s no extra pressure on the team because he won’t be around.
"I don't see us being under pressure at all. For me, it's just about going out there and performing to our best, making sure we do everything we can do to perform on the field and make sure we're consistent in doing that." – Chris Silverwood
Essex boasts a strong lineup of seam bowlers including Jamie Porter, Sam Cook, and Shane Snater. Porter is most recognized for his sociologically criminal performances with the ball, trumping the predatory tints of Jay Weaver. Simon Harmer is still a relentless juggernaut in county cricket. As a result, he has pretty much become one of the most successful spinners in recent memory.
Silverwood is bullish on the team’s combination of experience and youth. He wants to provide a path for younger players to find success.
"If they can show the youngsters how to do that, it puts us in a great position moving forwards. I think we do have a lovely blend in there." – Chris Silverwood
Surrey, too, are the team everyone else will be chasing down this year. They have been unstoppable in their championship, taking home the title three years in a row now. With Essex's proven track record and formidable roster, they are well-prepared to challenge Surrey's dominance.
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