Essex commence the 1999 County Championship season next Tuesday, and their opening match could hardly be more difficult, as they meet last year's champions Leicestershire at Chelmsford in a four day game.

Essex will be captained for the first time by Ronnie Irani who is relishing the challenge of the season ahead.

He said: "I can't wait to get started. Obviously there's going to be a lot of attention on our performance after the disappointing year that we had in 1998.

"But we have some good experienced players and the youngsters will be scrapping for a place or two in the side and that gives us healthy competition.

"If we can get a couple of wins early on, then you'll see a different Essex from last season. Understandably, our confidence dipped last year and with the number of injuries that we were carrying, it was a difficult time for the side.

"But we have to be positive. I'm looking forward to the opportunity to lead the county, some people have worried that the extra responsibility might affect my game but I love to be involved.

"I know what's expected of me and I've got good people around me both on and off the field to assist, so there won't be a problem."

Leicestershire, naturally, are again one of the favourites to lift the County Championship title this year and they have recruited former Essex paceman Michael Kasprowicz to their squad.

The Australian replaces West Indian Phil Simmons who will be on World Cup duty.

Ronnie Irani, who is looking forward to leading Essex for a large part of the 1999 season.

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