COUNTY CRICKET

THE young pace Essex CCC pair of Mervyn Westfield and Maurice Chambers will be hoping to put the nightmare of last summer behind them when the new season begins in a few days time.

The pair, who play for Wanstead Cricket Club when available, endured a wretched time with injuries in 2007 as stress fractures in the back restricted them to just one first team appearance - Westfield turning out in the opening game against Derbyshire during which he failed to take a wicket while conceding 64 runs.

But now first-team coach Paul Grayson is keeping his fingers crossed that the 19-year-old Westfield and 20-year-old Chambers will now start making up for lost time and begin fulfiling their potential.

"Both have been up to the National Cricket Centre in Loughborough during the winter where coach Kevin Shine and the fitness team have looked after them very well," said Grayson.

"There they have been building up their core stability and bowling off a few yards - but they have gradually stepped that up as time has gone by.

"Now we are expecting both to be in contention for the opening first-class game against Cambridge UCCE. Last season was a bit of a wake-up call for both of them and they realise just how much they missed playing cricket when it wasn't there for them."

One can only hope that the county's faith in the pair is rewarded.

If that proves the case, then exciting times lie ahead for them, the county and supporters.

With this season's Twenty20 matches again expected to be played out in front of capacity crowds at Chelmsford, members are reminded that they can benefit from discounts on their tickets if they purchase them by May 6.

Adult members can buy them for £10 before this date and reserve a seat for an additional fiver.

These can be purchased in person at Chelmsford; by post with the priority booking form or by phone on 01245 254010.

All the home Twenty20 Group matches are in June, starting with the visit of Middlesex on the 15th (2-30pm start).

The next three all start at 7 pm (v Kent on 18th; v Surrey on 20th and Sussex on the 24th).

Hampshire arrive on the 27th for a 5.30 pm start.