ESSEX, the NatWest Trophy holders, have developed an affinity for the competition which saw them sweep aside lacklustre Cheshire by 10 wickets at Boughton Hall.

The minor county gave the visitors a challenging contest here three years ago, but the batting yesterday lacked conviction in damp, unpleasant conditions and Paul Prichard (55 not out) and Darren Robinson (37 not out) overhauled a meagre target of 93 without undue alarm.

Persistent drizzle delayed the start and Cheshire were immediately in trouble after losing the toss. Paul Bryson fell lbw to Mark Ilott's first ball of the match.

Grant Flower, the Zimbabwe Test player, is currently at Harrogate and was drafted in late at the instigation of Ian Cockbain, the Cheshire captain. The opener received a £500 fee, but fenced at Ashley Cowan and was caught behind for eight, a poor return on the county's investment.

Ronnie Irani, of Essex, was Man of the Match with a spell of three for 13 in 10 overs.