Essex book their place in the Final

Essex followed the example of skipper Ronnie Irani to book their place in the Benson & Hedges Cup Final on 22 June.

The 30-year-old all-rounder has been in irresistible form and there was no escape for Worcestershire at Chelmsford today after his double onslaught.

Irani scored 57 from 55 balls as the home side powered to 262 for nine. The Essex captain then dismissed Anurag Singh, Graeme Hick and Ben Smith to leave Worcestershire on 26 for four at last night's close.

Any hopes of a comeback by the visitors disappeared this morning when Jonathan Dakin bowled David Leatherdale with only five runs added. Worcestershire were bowled out for 124 in 33.4 overs, with Andy Clarke picking up three wickets as Essex won by 138 runs.

In the other B&H semi-final, Lancashire were 176 for five after 45 overs against Warwickshire at Old Trafford.

Butcher could feel pinch and pain