Now the county is hoping that the Aussie batsman will be around to do an encore in the semis against Surrey.

Law, who has been selected for the Australian squad to play in the Singer Cup tournament later this month, is expected to link up with the rest of the squad on August 15 at Queensland.

To do so, Law would need to leave England on the day of the final - but Essex is hoping that the Australian Cricket Board will bend the rules a shade, and permit Law to delay his flight till August 14.

Essex secretary general Peter Edwards made the request via a fax to ACB chief executive Graham Halbeish. A reply is being awaited.

Law, for his part, indicated that he would like to play the upcoming game. ''I'll be playing against Surrey - and I am convinced we will book a place at Lord's for the final,''said the hard-hitting Aussie batsman.

Law has been a huge success for Essex, ever since he replaced compatriot Mark Waugh as the county's overseas professional. Prior to his matchwinning 107, he had scored a century against Durham in the second round of the 60-over tournament.

''Law's playing out of his skin,'' said Essex captain Paul Prichard, while echoing Law's confident prediction that Essex will be at Lord's in September.