Cox century puts Essex on top against Surrey

Essex wicketkeeper Adam Wheater’s century put the hosts in control on day one of their County Championship match against Surrey at Chelmsford.

Wheater’s 144 not out, supported by useful contributions from the lower order, helped Essex to a total of 369 all out on a good batting pitch.

Surrey’s top order collapsed to 64-4 in response, with David Masters and Graham Napier taking two wickets each.

However, a counter-attacking innings from Kumar Sangakkara (111 not out) helped Surrey to recover to 227-6 at stumps on day one.

Essex will be looking to wrap up Surrey’s innings quickly on day two and then build a substantial lead in their second innings.

With Wheater in fine form, they will be confident of putting themselves in a strong position to push for victory in the match.

Surrey, on the other hand, will be hoping for further resistance from Sangakkara and the lower order to keep them in the game.

Overall, it promises to be an intriguing battle between two strong sides with a lot to play for in this County Championship fixture.