Nasser Hussain's first appearance of the summer failed to inspire Essex to victory in their opening National League clash against Surrey at Chelmsford.

The England captain made just 21 from 43 deliveries before the county, replying to a total of 268-8, were bowled out for 253 with a dozen balls remaining.

Hussain's innings contrasted sharply with those of Will Jefferson and skipper Ronnie Irani.

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Jefferson blasted nine fours in a 36-ball 47 before falling lbw to Alex Tudor, while Irani struck three sixes while making 64 from 60 balls before being caught behind.

His departure left Essex requiring 91 from 14 overs and for a while it looked as though they would make it.

James Foster and Jon Dakin added 37 in six overs but once that partnership was broken by off-spinner Saqlain Mushtaq, who had earlier bowled Hussain, Surrey regained the initiative to repeat the success they achieved on the same ground last season.

Saqlain finished with 3-27 from his nine overs as he demonstrated what a world class operator he his.

Medium paceman Graham Napier claimed three wickets in 15 deliveries, including that of Graham Thorpe, that reduced the visitors to 82-6.

But they were revived in spectacular style by captain Adam Hollioake and Azhar Mahmood, who between them blitzed 154 in 21 overs.

One of Hollioake's four sixes smashed the press box window, the others forcing spectators to take evasive action.

Azhar was just as explosive, reaching a 44-ball half-century with one of three sixes, that particular stroke rebounding from the top deck of the Tom Pearce Stand.

Hollioake, whose 77 came from 66 deliveries, was bowled by Scott Brant trying to guide the ball down to third man.

And Azhar fell in similar manner to Dakin when within two of his century to the penultimate ball of the innings, and his 73rd.

Published Monday, April 28, 2003

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