Cricket: Nasser and Prich set to boost Essex hopes

His return could also coincide with that of Paul Prichard who is poised to open the innings following an absence of six weeks with a wrist injury.

Prichard will definitely play if he suffers no adverse reaction from today's practice session. The return of both Hussain and Prichard would serve as a tremendous boost as the county seek to climb back on the winning train following their defeat at Old Trafford a week ago.

Before his injury Prichard had recorded four 50s and one century in six matches, while Hussain travels to Cardiff with a Championship aggregate this season of 331 runs from three games.

Significantly, Essex's Championship successes arrived with Hussain in charge and his form and inspirational qualities will be a decisive factor in Wales.

If, as expected, Prichard gives the thumbs-up sign it is likely to be at the expense of Darren Robinson, who has been so out of touch he has failed to reach 30 in any of his 16 Championship innings this summer.

In contrast, Paul Grayson has proved a revelation since moving up to open in Prichard's absence.

In three games he has amassed 405 at an average of more than 100 and now looks set to land the job on a permanent basis.

Either Tim Walton or Stephen Peters is likely to stand down to accommodate the return of Hussain.

The Essex attack will again be spearheaded by Mark Ilott and Ashley Cowan - but all eyes will be on Peter Such following his deeds at Old Trafford.

There, the off-spinner emerged from the wreckage of a 118-run defeat with a haul of 13 wickets but he will be only too aware the Cardiff pitch is unlikely to be as responsive to his particular craft.

Essex are expected to choose from: Hussain (captain), Prichard, Robinson, Grayson, S Law, Irani, Peters, Hyam, Cowan, Ilott, Walton, Such, Anderson.

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