Only as far as Spain

Essex 11 for 0 (4 overs). Gallian 6, Maunders 5.

In light not much better than when the umps would not allow play, Essex's openers are being well-tested by Martin and Woakes. The first over of the innings took six minutes after Gallian required treatment to his right thumb, bruised by a Martin in-ducker.

Willow warblers will soon be migrating to tropical Africa for the winter. Chiffchaffs, meanwhile, will only fly as far as Spain.