It may just be a sideshow as far as Essex are concerned.

But they have certainly been turning on the style in the Natwest Pro40 in the last week.

Thrilling run chases against Hampshire and Durham have moved them up to fourth in the table and this eveningf sees them face Somerset in a floodlit encounter.

The short boundaries are sure to produce another run feast and Alastair Cook will be aiming for his third century on the trot, having struck 104 not out against Durham and 104 against Hampshire.

Graham Napier will fancy his chances of a big score at the small ground following his knock of 63 against Durham, while James Foster has also been in sparkling form.

Essex lost their first two games in the Pro40 but have moved up the table and are four points behind leaders Sussex.

But with Essex’s priority lying in the championship and only two matches remaing in the Pro40, Essex are not in the running for the title and are likely to give the younger players a chance in the side.

l David Masters has signed a contract extension with Essex. This new contract will extend his stay until the end of the 2012 season.

Masters said: “I am now 31 and will be very happy to finish my career here at Essex, when this new contract ends I will be 34.

“I want to carry on playing cricket beyond that point and this is certainly a step in the right direction.”

Coach Paul Grayson said: “He has been a terrific performer for the past few years.

“If he can stay fit that will continue for years to come.

“He is a role model for all of the bowlers at the club.”