COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP DIVISION TWO, Chelmsford:
CLOSE OF PLAY, DAY ONE: Essex 310-3 (Essex 3pts, Leics 1pt)
26-29 August 2009

John Maunders hit 14 fours in his 223-ball century at Chelmsford

John Maunders recorded a century against his former county as Essex dominated the opening day against Leicestershire at Chelmsford.

Maunders, 28, who spent five seasons at Grace Road, hit an unbeaten 142 as the home side closed on 310-3.

Opener Maunders and youngster Tom Westley (71 not out) put on an unbeaten 159 for the fourth wicket.

Alastair Cook scored 31 on his return to the county scene, following England's 2-1 victory in the Ashes.

Like the England vice-captain, Essex batsmen Varun Chopra and Matt Walker failed to capitalise on good starts to their innings.

Leicestershire fast bowler Wayne White claimed two victims, while off-spinner Jigar Naik took the other wicket to fall on the first day.

Maunders will resume his innings on day two just 38 runs short of his highest first-class score of 180, which he made for Leicestershire against Gloucestershire at Cheltenham in 2006.

Essex batsman John Maunders told BBC Essex:

"As an opener you set out to bat all day. It doesn't happen all the time, but it's very pleasing when it does happen.

"Whenever you win the toss, you're looking to have to bat just once. We'll be looking to bat another session or two tomorrow and post a big score.

"I try just as hard against anyone, but players do seem to have a knack of getting runs against their old counties."

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