The Essex Second Eleven enjoyed a record-breaking day in their Second Eleven Trophy match against MCCA at Dunstable on Thursday, June 19.

Opening pair Tom Huggins (133) and John Maunders (107) added 245 for the first-wicket, setting an Essex partnership record for all wickets in the competition.

Essex scored 342-6 in their 50 overs, in the process compiling their largest total in the Second Eleven Trophy.

After bowling out the Minor Counties Cricket Association for 196 they also achieved their biggest margin of victory in the Second Eleven Trophy – 146 runs.

Former Northamptonshire batsman Huggins and ex-Leicestershire batsman Maunders – both of whom are on trial with the County – beat the previous best stand of 244 undefeated by Nadeem Shahid and Jon Lewis against MCC Young Cricketers at Wickford in 1993.

Second Eleven Coach John Childs told the Essex CCC website:
“Tom and John both grabbed their opportunities to impress on a very good batting track. Their excellent start allowed the rest to come in and push the score up to a formidable 342. After getting three quick wickets in their reply the result was never in doubt. All in all it was a very professional start to our Second Eleven Trophy campaign. For the first time for two or three years we are able to put out a side mixed with youth and experience that looks capable of winning the competition.”

Essex’s next game in the Second Eleven Trophy takes place on Monday when Middlesex travel to Billericay.

Scorecard
MCCA v Essex 2nd XI at Dunstable CC (Second Eleven Trophy, Thursday June 19)

Essex won the toss and elected to bat

Essex 342-6 off 50 overs (Huggins 133/Maunders 107/Westley 6/McLean 14/Phillips 21/Mickleburgh 13/Roberts 25 not out/Wheater 5 not out)

MCCA 196 all out off 43.3 overs (Ahmed 7-2-27-1/Wright 6-0-21-2/Westfield 9-1-38-2/Roberts 4-1-21-3/Phillips 6-1-34-0/Westley 10-1-36-1/Huggins 1.3-0-5-1)