Australians v Essex

At Chelmsford, July 1-4. Australians won by 169 runs. Toss: Essex.
The Australians shuffled their pack, bringing in pace bowlers Starc and Hazlewood, and off-spinner Lyon. As they had a week earlier, they inflicted a heavy defeat on second division opponents who nevertheless put on a good show - despite losing two batsmen to injury (Browne dislocated his right index finger, while bruised ribs prevented Westley from adding to his stylish first-innings century). An understrength Essex attack were meat and drink to Warner, eventually dismissed in sight of a hundred by Porter. Clarke departed first ball, but Mitchell Marsh bolstered his case for Test selection with sound technique and a bold approach. Essex's reply to a daunting 562 began well: Westley, underlining his potential, added 213 for the second wicket in 49 overs with Bopara, who reminded England of his trademark drives and flicks. Starc's career-best six for 51 confirmed he could be a handful in the Tests, but Lyon, expensive and unthreatening, suggested otherwise. The county bowlers were more incisive second time around - though Clarke fared better. A target of 370 was unrealistic for a depleted batting line-up. Starc and Hazlewood - much sharper in the second innings - bowled the Australians to victory under blue skies.