Ahead of the start of Essex County Cricket Club’s defence of their County Championship crown on 13th April against Yorkshire at Headingley, Paul Hiscock spoke to some of the key men about the new season.

Former England and Hampshire all-rounder Dimitri Mascarenhas joined the Eagles in March as Assistant Head Coach following Anthony McGrath’s promotion to the top job.  Mascarenhas has previously turned his hand to coaching roles with Hampshire, Rajasthan Royals and Hobart Hurricanes, going on to become Head Coach of Otago Volts, before taking Bowling Coach roles with New Zealand and Melbourne Renegades in the Big Bash.

Matt Coles joined Essex back in October following a significant spell with Kent.  The 27 year old all-rounder is hoping to feature for The Eagles in all formats this year and win trophies as he returns to Division One.

Chairman John Faragher has had an incredible couple of years in the role – Essex’s County Championship winning campaign of 2017 following a victorious Division Two season.  John speaks about his hopes for this year, plus the club’s strategy going forward, including some interesting comments on a potential signing.