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Ronnie Irani stakes Test claim with 3-for

Essex all-rounder Ronnie Irani, who is widely tipped to be part of the England squad for the fourth and final Test against the visiting New Zealanders, helped restrict the tourists to 236 all out on the opening day of the four day match between the two sides, on Friday.

In course of a lively six over spell under overcast conditions, Irani struck two quick blows to take out Mathew Horne for a duck, and captain Stephen Fleming, who has been struggling with the bat from the World Cup phase on, for eight to have the touring party struggling at 16/2, then returned to take out a late wicket, that of Shane O'Connor, and finish with 3/24 off 12 overs. It was in fact rather surprising, given his early heroics, that Irani didn't bowl more than the dozen overs he sent down.

For the visitors, the score was given some respectability by Nathan Astle (54) and Craig McMillan (47). With 25 overs lost to rain, the tourists struck back at the end of the day to have Essex 9/1 at close, Chris Cairns -- who has been having a dream run with the ball during the Test series -- taking out opener Paul Grayson for a duck.

Essex meanwhile missed the services of skipper Nasser Hussain, who has been out of action for over a fortnight with a broken finger. Hussain, who was present at the ground to watch Irani strut his stuff, said however that he would be 100 per cent fit and ready to lead England out at the Oval next Thursday.

Hussain had broken a finger during the second Test, at Lord's, three weeks ago. He was reportedly fit for the game against the tourists, but was advised by Essex consultant Keith Fletcher not to risk it.